New York City will mark Columbus Day on Monday with the 73rd annual parade.
Thousands of participants will march up Fifth Avenue in a celebration of Italian-American culture.
This year’s parade comes amid controversy, amid a debate in recent weeks over whether to celebrate the life of Christopher Columbus. He discovered American but his legacy has been criticized by some in recent years because of his treatment of indigenous people.
In the aftermath of the Charlottesville attack, there’s been an effort to take down controversial statues across the United States. Mayor Bill de Blasio appointed a commission to look at all symbols of hate in New York City, which could lead to statues of Columbus coming down.
De Blasio’s decision has angered many. Organizers of a Columbus Parade in the Bronx didn’t invite the mayor to their event on Sunday.
Photo Credit: Getty Images