Columbus statue vandalized with graffiti, hands painted red

NEW YORK – A statue of Christopher Columbus in Central Park has been vandalized with graffiti and his hands have been painted red.

Graffiti found early Tuesday on the base of the New York City statue said, “Hate will not be tolerated” and “#Somethingscoming.”

Workers quickly began cleaning up the mess.

A city commission has been formed on what to do with statues and monuments seen to have oppressive historical connotations.

Columbus is seen as a hero to many, especially Italian-Americans, but he’s seen as a murderous colonizer to Native Americans and others.

Columbus Day is a national holiday held on the second Monday in October to celebrate the explorer’s landing in the New World in 1492.