Christopher Columbus statue Trump added near White House is replica of one downed by protesters
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- A replica statue of Christopher Columbus has been installed on the grounds of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building near the White House, as part of the Trump administration's efforts to honor the explorer despite growing criticism of his legacy.
- The statue, originally toppled and thrown into Baltimore's Inner Harbor during 2020 protests against institutional racism, was loaned by the Italian American Organizations United and created by sculptor Will Hemsley.
- Supporters, including Maryland delegate Nino Mangione, view the statue's placement as a tribute to Columbus's historical contributions and a statement against efforts to "erase" history, while critics highlight Columbus's role in the exploitation and genocide of indigenous peoples.
- The controversy over Columbus's legacy has led to some replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day, with President Joe Biden becoming the first U.S. president to officially recognize Indigenous Peoples Day in 2021.
