A nonprofit organization is planning to unveil a Christopher Columbus statue in Brooklyn, New York, this October as part of an effort to preserve Italian-American history and heritage.
According to reports, the project is being spearheaded by Chinese-American New York State Assemblyman Lester Chang (R-Brooklyn), who plans to place the monument on private property at the John Hughes Club in Dyker Heights.
Organizers say the location will help protect the statue from potential removal by city officials.
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Speaking about the initiative, Chang said the project is about supporting the community he represents.
“I’m Chinese, but this is my community, too,” Chang said.
He also reflected on his family’s history, explaining that his father, who immigrated from China in 1924, struggled to find employment before eventually being offered work at an Italian restaurant in Liberty, New York.
The coalition is currently seeking to raise $100,000 to cover the costs of constructing and maintaining the statue.
The initiative has also received support from New York Young Republican Club President Stefano Forte, whose organization has assisted with early fundraising efforts.
Forte criticized recent efforts to remove monuments dedicated to Christopher Columbus, saying:
“At a time when Italian-American history and culture are being erased by Mayor Mamdani, our club is highlighting one of the giants of American and Italian history, Christopher Columbus.”
As of the time of reporting, Mayor Mamdani’s office had not responded to requests for comment.
The coalition’s treasurer, Gregory Lendino, described Columbus as a longstanding symbol of pride for many Italian Americans.
“It didn’t matter if you were Republican or Democrat, conservative or liberal. He was just an icon that we rallied around.”
Committee member Lori Pedone also shared her personal connection to the project, expressing hope that future generations of her family would be able to see the statue and appreciate their heritage.
“My grandparents would be ecstatic knowing that we’re trying to preserve history,” she said.
“My son was recently married. Maybe my grandchildren will one day be able to see that statue and be proud of it as well.”
Organizers say the Brooklyn monument is only the beginning. The coalition hopes to provide a permanent home for other monuments that may be removed from public spaces across the United States, arguing that placing them on private property is the most practical way to preserve them.