The Statue of Liberty has a tablet in her left hand that is shaped like a keystone, symbolizing the fundamental importance of the principles it represents. The tablet is inscribed with the date "JULY IV MDCCLXXVI," written in Roman numerals, which signifies the adoption of the United States Declaration of Independence. On the tablet, there is also a poem written by Emma Lazarus in 1883 called "The New Colossus". The poem reads:

"Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

The poem contrasts the Statue of Liberty with the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, emphasizing the nurturing, caring aspect of the United States as a refuge for immigrants. The poems message reinforces the powerful message of hope, opportunity, and freedom that the monument represents.