A group that opposes Wednesday’s scheduled removal of a Christopher Columbus statue in New Haven has gathered around the monument, police said.
“Those gathered are supporters of the Christopher Columbus statue and do not want to see it removed,” Duff said. He said about 40-50 people were present at 6 a.m.
“The Christopher Columbus statue for many Italians is a celebration of Italian heritage,” Mayor Justin Elicker said. “But the statue of Christopher Columbus also represents a time of colonialism and atrocities committed. It is the right decision to remove the statue. After the statue is removed, I believe it is important that we, as a community, have a conversation about how to best honor the heritage of so many Italians who have made New Haven their home.