A Christopher Columbus statue in Rhode Island, which was removed three years ago, suddenly re-emerges.
Before it was removed, many activists vandalized the sculpture, which was originally located in a square in Providence.
Because of criticisms, Rhode Island had to remove the bronze. However, the controversial statue returned. This time, it is now in a park in Johnston.
Rhode Island: Columbus Statue Returns After Getting Removed 3 Years Ago
According to Fox News' latest report, the controversial statue of Christopher Columbus re-emerged in a park in Johnston, which is around 9 miles west of the capital.
Despite criticisms from Rhode Island residents, Johnston Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr. said that the return of the statue is a big deal for his Italian-American town.
"It's important and not just for Italian Americans. It's American history. It's world history, if you look at it from a historical perspective," said the mayor.
Polisena said that the statue was recently purchased by the former mayor of Providence, Joseph Paolino Jr. The Johnston leader said that Paolino reached out to him to see if the sculpture could be placed in his town.
Mayor Polisena agreed to the former official's request, unveiling the Columbus statue on Monday, Oct. 2. The bronze depicts the historical figure pointing forward with his right arm while holding the globe on the other hand.
"I don't want to see it destroyed. I don't want to see it melted down. People should learn about him, the good and the bad," said the Johnston mayor.
Critics Not So Happy About Statue's Return
Polisena said that he understands why Christopher Columbus is criticized by many people. However, the official explained that it is unfair to use the standards of 2023 to measure the actions of a historical figure who lived five centuries ago.
Despite his explanation, many critics still showed their disappointment. One of them is Black Lives Matter Rhode Island PAC President Harrison Tuttle. He said that the statue should never have been revived.
Tuttle stated that people can easily understand the harm that Columbus inflicted against the indigenous people without needing to be one of them.
The critic added, via the Associated Press, that returning the statue just shows that officials are tone-deaf to all the progress they made three years ago
Tuttle explained that he understands the connection that many Italian descent feel for the historical figure. But, this should not be their way to show their pride as Italian-Americans.
"At the same time, there are better ways to celebrate your heritage and culture without celebrating someone who in my opinion is the exact opposite of what Italian culture is," added Tuttle.
