The Streetsblog staff is observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day today, but an important development over the weekend involved the disintegration of the City Council’s Italian Caucus regarding the holiday previously known as “Columbus Day.” According to Bay Ridge Council Member Justin Brannan, he was expelled from the caucus by Chairman David Carr, a Republican from Staten Island, for not showing loyalty to Christopher Columbus. Carr has since refused to entertain discussions about whether Columbus Day should officially change to Indigenous Peoples’ Day. In New York City, the holiday is currently designated as “Italian Heritage Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day,” and universities like St. John’s have also eliminated Columbus-related celebrations.
The situation has raised eyebrows, as Brannan’s feud with Carr has been likened to a contentious rivalry more suited for a restaurant than a political caucus. Each year, discussions about Columbus are reignited, despite his controversial legacy that many argue does not warrant a holiday. Reports over the weekend raised diverse claims about Columbus’s origins, suggesting he may have been of Spanish descent and possibly Jewish.
Brannan’s response to the internal conflict culminated in a bold tweet, telling the Italian Caucus to “get your head out of your ass,” a clear and direct challenge to the leadership.
In other news:
Bloomberg reported on Friday about how Uber and Lyft are allegedly retaliating against taxi drivers following the introduction of a minimum wage bill that affects their operations.
Supporters of the Eastern Queens Greenway are gearing up for a significant and contentious battle over a plan aimed at providing additional greenspace for children and families in the area. This initiative has sparked unwarranted opposition from Council Member Vickie Paladino.
Additionally, advocates took to the Queensboro Bridge to urge the Department of Transportation to fulfill its pledge to create more space for cyclists and pedestrians. Streetfilms was present, continuing its years-long dedication to promoting cycling and pedestrian safety.