NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — A new Christopher Columbus statue is now standing in Naples, and Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida was there to unveil it.
The 6-foot bronze statue now stands in front of the Knights of Columbus building, as part of America 250.
Two signs explaining the history of Columbus and early Spanish exploration in Florida also accompany the statue.
The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men’s organization with 60,000 members across Florida that gives back to the community through public outreach and charity events.
The organization said the statue was funded through private donations and the location was chosen because of its visibility.
The Knights of Columbus say Columbus is their namesake and they plan to stand by his legacy.
“He discovered this place, this place where we call our home today, the Americas, the greatest country in the world. We are so proud to be Americans,” said Michael Josephs-Tobias, Knights of Columbus Council State Deputy.
Scott O’Connor, Knights of Columbus Supreme Director, also weighed in on the debate surrounding Columbus.
“I think the story, the true story, needs to be told. You know, and there are those that would say, ‘Well, Columbus, you know, kept slaves and was not a great leader.’ Well, we beg to differ. In fact, you know, his own men mutinied against him because he was trying to protect the indigenous people,” O’Connor said.
This statue is one of many DeSantis has unveiled across Florida as part of America 250, with only one or two more left to unveil.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is set to hold a press conference in Naples.
DeSantis will be joined by Visit Florida President & CEO Bryan Griffin at the Knights of Columbus Council #4357, located at 3020 62nd St. SW in Naples.
Watch the full conference above.