What is the status of removal of the statue?
The statue been a matter of debate for many years. After three years of community dialogue discussions,
followed by a huge push in 2020 to take it down, Mayor Walsh decided that the Columbus statue be removed.

Why is it still in a public space in downtown Syracuse?
Mayor Ben Walsh has appointed a commission to deal with various aspects of the removal project. Some
members will develop plans for a Heritage Park for the area that will honor various ethnic groups that have
helped build our community. Others will develop a proposal for the actual fountain area, which will be
reimagined to honor those of Italian heritage. Both groups are meeting.

When and where will it be relocated?
The target date is December 2021. There has been discussion of Onondaga Historical Association or another
private location being the statue’s new home.

Why am I seeing yards signs against the statue being moved?
Some Syracuse residents of Italian descent strongly disapprove of the Mayor’s decision. They were included in
the original dialogue discussions over the last three years, but the overwhelming majority of participants were
in favor of removal. They do not agree and the Monument Corporation has filed a lawsuit contending that the
Mayor does not have the authority to remove the statue.

Why do we need to make a strong show of support to remove the statue now?
Even though Mayor Walsh has said that the statue will be removed, there are political and financial forces that
have mounted a serious push back campaign, to keep the statue where it is.

How can I express my support for the statue removal from downtown Syracuse?

1. Contact the Mayor’s office
   Letter: 203 City Hall, 233 E. Washington St., Syracuse, NY 13202-1473
   Phone: (315) 448-8005
   Email: Mayor@SyrGov.net
2. Put a free Celebrate Diversity, Replace Columbus sign in your yard.
   • Pick one up at the Syracuse Cultural Workers Office, 400 Lodi St, Syracuse, NY 13203, from 9:15am-
   4:45pm Monday-Friday
   • Pick up one from the Syracuse Peace Council Office, 2013 E. Genesee St., Syracuse NY 13210.
   Contact Carol at carol@peacecouncil.net for hours.
   • Have one delivered to your home. Contact Sue at rsue@twcny.rr.com
   • Lawn signs are free, but donations towards the cost of the signs are gratefully accepted.
3. Share your position with friends and neighbors.
4. Write a Letter to the Editor.
   Email: letters@syracuse.com.
   Letters should not exceed 250 words. They will publish your first and last name and community of
   residence. Include your street address and daytime phone number, for verification of your identity and
   so that they may contact you if they have questions.
5. Ask mayoral candidates about their positions on the statue and the proposed new park.