The Pittsburgh Art Commission voted Wednesday to remove the Christopher Columbus statue — which has overlooked Oakland since 1958 — from Schenley Park. Italian Sons and Daughters of America has called Pittsburgh home since 1930, our organization is headquartered in this city, and we plan on vigorously fighting the decision.

“ISDA will call upon Mayor Bill Peduto to reject the recommendation of the Art Commission. In the event the city attempts to move forward, we are prepared to take the matter to court to prevent the city from removing the statue of Columbus from Schenley Park,” said ISDA President Basil Russo on Wednesday, after the decision was announced during a virtual meeting.