Dear Editor: I was disappointed that no one voiced outrage for the graffiti-laden message mounted on the Columbus statue in Astoria. That statue was actually hidden during World War II in some basement out of fear it would be melted for bullets in the war. Today, the efforts of a few politicians and individuals to remove the significance of Columbus and eliminate his importance in history is appalling and disturbing. These people are not historians, researchers or scholars. Their ignorance is as equal as it is to their arrogance.
The meaning of Christopher Columbus is simple. It is a message to all immigrants who had the courage and determination to risk it all to come to this great land with nothing but a glimmer of hope and a desire for a better future. Most immigrants fled from persecution and oppression especially when it pertained to their religious beliefs. The significance of Columbus has two core values, which are imprinted upon us all, and they are religious freedom and hope for a better life, now and for generations to come.
Of course, like all of us, Christopher Columbus had his flaws. So did historical figures, whom we still honor, respect and value as they shaped this nation. President Abraham Lincoln was the most memorable, while credited with abolishing slavery, however, he did believe that blacks and whites should be separated. Also, George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were slave owners.
Should we then tear up the paper money that their faces are imprinted upon?
Should we take down the U.S. Capitol and the White House that was built by African American slaves? Should we eliminate Wall Street in downtown Manhattan which was created to keep away American Indians?
These self-proclaimed revisionists should put their intolerance aside and perhaps have a more meaningful conversation with the truth. Columbus is not just the pride of Italian-Americans, but also Spanish-Americans who funded his journey to America. Columbus’ mission was to spread Christianity.
Particularly, in the current situation immigrants find themselves in today, the meaning of Columbus has never been more important. It is the meaning of courage to settle in this land and to be able to practice religion freely. These are the pedestals this country was founded upon.
JOHN J. CIAFONE
Astoria
Dear Editor: This Monday’s annual honoring of Christopher Columbus comes with mixed feelings about a man whose feats as a sailor and explorer were nothing short of incredible and heroic, yet whose attempts at governing lands he discovered resulted in unintended consequences worthy of reproach.
Columbus was a flawed human who accomplished great things, which helped, and harmed, humanity. As one looks into the historical context before Columbus’ arrival, the interpretation of subsequent events takes on greater clarity.
Some may argue against celebration, though his discovery does seem worthy of commemoration.
JERRY PARISELLA
Brooklyn