Door of Equality (La Puerta de Igualdad)

The gateway sculpture, “Door of Equality (La Puerta de Igualdad),” by Mexican artist Sebastian is a gift to the City of San Antonio from Fundación Sebastian and Siempre México to commemorate the city’s rich civil and human rights history. The sculpture stands at a monumental 33-feet tall and will be a bright cobalt blue, adding more even more color to the already vibrant downtown skyline. The “Door of Equality” is located at the San Pedro roundabout, a block north of San Antonio Central Library, which is an award-winning post-modern architectural building designed by renowned Mexican architect, Ricardo Legorreta.

The sculpture symbolizes the infinite struggle for justice with two, tightly wound, geometric pillars that stand side by side. The sculpture is lit from within, marking the first time the artist incorporates light into his work and giving off a perpetual glow that speaks to the fire and energy surrounding the City’s tenacious history. Set as a gateway between downtown and other areas of the City, the sculpture symbolizes that San Antonio’s door is always open.

The torqued twisted steel columns showcase the grind of the work done by human rights champions in San Antonio. These pillars are equal in strength and beauty representing the vision of equality. Each column is royal blue, with the first representing peace, tranquility and wisdom and the second column standing for loyalty, strength, and trust.

“With the current climate we are living in, one where walls are being proposed, I wanted to create a work that speaks to the importance of keeping doors open and being vigilant about true equality,” said Sebastian.

This piece, and other Sebastian works in our city, characterize San Antonio’s long, fruitful, and hopeful relationship with Mexico. San Antonio has two vibrant Sister Cities in Mexico, Monterey and Guadalajara, and maintains a productive Friendship City relationship with Mexico City. Go to the Global Engagement Office website to learn more about our Partner Cities.