And for over half a century, the Watts Towers have stood. They've withstood natural and man-made catastrophes. They've survived despite the efforts of critics and the ravages of earthquakes and the proximity of civil unrest. And they've stood. They've stood as both a tribute to individual imagination and as a monument to the power of difference.
Seen from afar, the Watts Towers rise like the spires of a great cathedral. But close up, you're immediately drawn in by the amazing complexity of their design. Embedded in those walls are thousands of cast-off objects, representing every imaginable color, shape, texture and form. They're made from bed frames and bottles and broken glass-pot shards and ceramic tiles.
When I see those towers soaring over Watts, my thoughts always return to the pieces that make up that beautiful whole. To the value in those things that people, in their haste, are apt to cast away. To the awesome power of disparate elements working together to achieve such dazzling harmony.
Fellow Angelenos, I will never forget where I came from. And I will always believe in the value of every Angeleno. This is truly our town. And we all have a contribution to make.
Simon Rodia was asked late in his life to explain the meaning of his work, and he offered this simple reply: "I had in mind to do something big, and I did it."
Let's heed Mr. Rodia's words today.
Let's do something big for Los Angeles. Let's raise our eyes skyward. Let's imagine the pinnacles that we can reach together. Together, all of us, without regard to race or geography or language, without regard to age or religion or gender or sexual orientation.
Fellow Angelenos, let's make Los Angeles a city of Purpose!
Let's dare to dream!
Let's dare to dream together!
May God bless Los Angeles, and may God bless the United States of America. God bless you all.
