Columbus Pedestal Removed From Grant Park, Leaving Statues Future In Limbo

The Chicago Park District has removed the pedestal of the Columbus statue in Grant Park, leading to outrage from the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans. The statue was taken down five years ago amid protests, which included clashes between police and demonstrators. Park District officials cited recommendations from the Chicago Monuments Project as the basis for the removal, aiming to reshape public spaces in line with community values. Ron Onesti, president of the civic committee, expressed disappointment over the city's communication, suggesting a lack of respect for the Italian American community. The statue will not be reinstated, with plans for new artwork to occupy the site.

The agreement reached between the city and the civic committee allows for the Arrigo Park Columbus statue to be loaned to the committee for display. Onesti highlighted concerns about the statue's vulnerability without legal protections, contrasting it with the Arrigo Park statue, which is safeguarded under a 1973 agreement. The committee is exploring options for relocating the Grant Park statue, possibly to the Italian American Museum.