Johnston, Rhode Island Continues Columbus Day Celebrations with Relocated Statue

Johnston, Rhode Island, held its annual Columbus Day celebrations yesterday, featuring the bronze statue of Christopher Columbus that was removed from Providence in 2020.

The statue, which resided in Providence’s Columbus Square since 1893, became a focal point of controversy amid protests alleging it glorified colonialism, slavery, and the genocide of Indigenous peoples. Former Providence Mayor Joseph Paolino Jr. purchased the statue for $50,000 and offered it to Johnston, stating he “didn’t want to see it melted down and turned into scrap metal.” Johnston Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr. accepted the offer in 2023, installing it at Johnston Memorial Park. The relocation of historical monuments often sparks debate about public memory and representation.

Polisena, who is Italian-American – as is nearly half the town’s population – emphasized the importance of understanding historical figures within their context. “I think it’s important world history,” he said. “When people are like, ‘Oh, you know he did these horrible things?’ I say, ‘Yes, I’m not saying he didn’t.’ But my whole thing is that you have to judge people based on the time they were in. I don’t think people valued life back then in the 1400s or 1500s the way that we do now.” The installation was largely funded through donations, with local businesses and a labor union contributing labor and materials valued at over $10,000, ensuring no taxpayer money was used. You can learn more about the history of Christopher Columbus from History.com.

This year, the town expanded its Columbus Day programming to include a food truck event around the statue, aiming to create a family-friendly atmosphere. The ongoing debate surrounding Columbus Day reflects a broader national conversation about recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day, as acknowledged by President Joe Biden’s annual proclamations since 2021. Former President Donald Trump, however, recently issued a proclamation to “reclaim” Columbus Day, accusing critics of historical slander, a move detailed in a White House statement. Polisena stated that officials are planning for similar celebrations next year.