In 1934, thousands of Italian Americans donated their nickels and dimes to erect a monument in downtown Syracuse, celebrating their successful assimilation as US citizens. The effort was inclusive before it was fashionable, involving Native Americans, Irish Americans, and others.
The Columbus Monument - completely restored by private donations and New York State in 1992 - has been celebrated each and every year since 1934, with a ceremony and a luncheon honoring a citizen of the community.
Ninety years after the effort began, the current mayor of Syracuse has demanded that the statue of Columbus come down, and that the site be re-dedicated.
