Chicago Mayor Supports Permanent Removal of Columbus Statues From City Parks

After years of debate, Chicago will not return its Christopher Columbus statues to public parks, with Mayor Brandon Johnson backing the decision to remove them permanently.

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Mayor Johnson said the move aligns with a broader effort to reflect truth and shared humanity in public art:

“Art and culture in particular is something that I don’t believe we should erase,” Johnson said. “And we do have to make sure that our presentation is depicting not just truth, but the best part of our existence, which is our collective humanity.”

At Grant Park, the statue’s base—also known as a plinth—will be removed, clearing the way for a redesigned public plaza that will feature rotating art installations.

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