On Columbus Day, Cuomo Reaffirms Commitment to Preserve Columbus Statue and Celebrate Italian-American Heritage
Blasts Mamdani’s Profane Attacks on Italian-American Symbolism as 'Disrespectful and Divisive'
New York, NY — Andrew M. Cuomo, candidate for mayor of New York City, today, on Columbus Day, reaffirmed his long-standing commitment to protect and preserve the Columbus statue at Columbus Circle and to celebrate the enduring contributions of Italian-Americans to New York City.
Cuomo, who as Governor led the successful effort to prevent the statue’s removal, said the monument remains an important symbol of pride and progress for generations of Italian-American families who helped build New York.
“Columbus Day has always been about honoring the courage, sacrifice, and contribution of the Italian-American community to this city and this nation,” said Andrew M. Cuomo. “For generations of Italian immigrants who came to New York with nothing but a dream, the statue of Christopher Columbus stood as a symbol that they belonged. It represented acceptance, dignity, and the belief that in America, hard work and family values could overcome prejudice and poverty. I fought to protect the Columbus statue when others wanted to tear it down — and as Mayor, I will continue to defend it. It is part of our shared history and a tribute to the generations of Italian-American families who built this city brick by brick,” Cuomo continued. “It’s disgraceful that some politicians like Zohran Mamdani, who thrives on division, have hurled profanities at Columbus statues, given what it represents to so many Italian Americans. New York is a city of many cultures and many stories, and real leadership means respecting all of them. We can honor every culture without erasing any of them: That’s what unity looks like, and that’s the city I believe in.”
As Governor, Cuomo built a record of achievement for the Italian-American community unmatched in modern New York history. He built the Mother Cabrini Statue in Battery Park City — after the de Blasio administration refused to include Cabrini, despite her being voted the public’s top choice for the city’s “She Built NYC” monument initiative. Cuomo personally led the effort to ensure the first Italian-American saint received the honor she deserved.
He also appointed the first Italian-American ever to the CUNY Board of Trustees, giving the community a stronger voice in the leadership of New York’s public university system.
Cuomo signed an executive order mandating state agencies offer and explain services in Italian, and supported Italian-American cultural and community centers across the state. He has marched in the Columbus Day Parade for decades, standing shoulder to shoulder with Italian-American families, organizations, and leaders who embody the values of hard work, faith, and family.
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