COLUMBUS, Ohio — A community college in Columbus said Tuesday it plans to remove a 40-foot statue of Christopher Columbus from its campus.
The 20-ton statue has been on display at the downtown campus of Columbus State Community College since 1988. The decision by the school comes as institutions across the country reconsider the display of statues of controversial historical figures. Several statues have been pulled down or vandalized during recent protests.
A statement released by the college says the statue likely will be removed within the next two weeks.
“This decision did not emerge solely in the wake of the senseless murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and Ahmaud Arbery but was a years-long dialogue out of concern and support for students of color who have been harmed and traumatized by systemic racism,” the statement says.
“The collegiate setting is often where students begin to refine their understanding of history and the world around them. Our students contributed their voices to this discourse around systemic racism, reinforcing the conclusion that the Christopher Columbus statue is not consistent with the values and mission of Columbus State.”
Bill DeMora, a member of the Columbus Italian Club, tells WBNS Channel 10 he does not oppose the statue being removed but he hopes the school will consider donating it instead of destroying it.
“It would go on private property and we would maintain it, and it would be something for the Italian community to still look upon with pride, over a native son who the city is named after,” DeMora tells WBNS.
Reports say there is a growing sentiment to have a statue of Columbus removed from in front of City Hall as well. City Council President Shannon Hardin tells WBNS he is open to moving the statue.
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