Columbus Bust in Pueblo covered up after activist’s death
PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- Early Friday morning, activists in Pueblo covered up the Christoper Columbus bust on Abriendo Avenue after the death of Rita Martinez, one of the most prominent activists in the battle over the statue.
The bust was covered up with a giant red banner reading 'Take It Down".
Around 8 a.m., Pueblo Police - including Police Chief Troy Davenport - took the banner down and returned it to the Martinez family.
At 8 a.m. Pueblo Police remove a banner covering the Christopher Columbus bust.. The banner was in honor of Rita Martinez, who passed away December 10th. Martinez was a strong opponent to the bust, and her funeral is being held this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/CV12dBQ7rU
— Dan Beedie KRDO (@BeedieonTV) December 18, 2020
Earlier this year, the City of Pueblo believed they found a solution to the Columbus bust debate through mediation. However, the idea was shot down by the Pueblo County Library District.
On December 10th, Martinez passed away at Parkview Medical Center from COVID-19 related symptoms. Martinez was a well-known indigenous activist in the Pueblo area, and an ardent opponent to the Columbus bust.
The family will be holding a public funeral procession in honor of Martinez. The public is invited to join the procession starting at the El Pueblo History Museum, starting at 1 p.m.
