New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a plan to grant the Christopher Columbus statue in Columbus Circle historic landmark status, aiming to protect it from potential removal amid growing public debate. The move comes as some city officials, including mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, called for the statue’s removal, describing it as a symbol of colonial oppression.
Mayor Adams defended his decision, stating that the statue represents an important part of the city’s Italian-American heritage and that preserving it honors New York’s cultural diversity. “New York’s strength lies in its history — all of it. Protecting this monument means protecting the story of every community that helped build this city,” Adams said during a press briefing at City Hall.
The proposed designation would place the monument under the protection of the city’s Landmarks Preservation Commission, preventing its removal or alteration without official approval. Supporters of the measure argue that the statue, which was erected in 1892 to mark the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s voyage, is a longstanding symbol of the Italian-American community’s contribution to New York’s social and cultural fabric.
However, critics argue that Columbus’s legacy should not be celebrated, pointing to his role in the violent colonization of Indigenous peoples. Activist groups have urged the city to replace the monument with symbols that represent reconciliation and inclusion.
The final decision will rest with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, which is expected to review the proposal in the coming weeks. If approved, the Columbus statue would join other historic landmarks across New York City protected for their cultural and historical significance.
The debate reflects a broader national conversation about how public monuments should represent the complexities of history — balancing pride in heritage with the need for reflection and accountability.
