The Italian American Civil Rights League (IACRL) is demanding that Gov. Tim Walz step down as Vice President Kamala Harris’s running mate due to accusations of racism against Italian Americans.

The accusations and demand for his resignation from the ticket stem from Walz’s handling of the 2020 George Floyd riots, including his inaction regarding the toppling of a Christopher Columbus statue, leading to intensified scrutiny and criticism from various political groups, as the Washington Examiner reports.

The IACRL’s Harsh Criticism

Mike Crispi, an IACRL board member and delegate for former President Donald Trump, has been at the forefront of this demand, denouncing Walz’s actions during the 2020 unrest. Crispi accuses Walz of showing disregard for Italian American culture by failing to prevent the destruction of the Columbus statue.

“Tim Walz did nothing to stop radical vandals from targeting the most prominent symbol of Italian American culture in a flagrant hate crime,” Crispi stated in a letter published by the IACRL.

He further accuses Walz of colluding with anti-Italian American groups to ensure the statue remained down.

Crispi’s sharp words included branding Walz an “enemy of the Italian American Community” and asserting that the Governor allowed Minnesota to become a stage for cultural Marxism, where chaos was left unchecked, and historical symbols were desecrated.

Governor’s Handling of the 2020 Riots

During the 2020 unrest following the police-involved murder of George Floyd, a Christopher Columbus statue was torn down by protesters in Minnesota.

This monument held significant symbolic value for many Italian Americans, who viewed Columbus as a figure of pride. Critics of Columbus, in contrast, highlight the violence and devastation that came in the wake of his arrival in the Americas.

Walz responded to these events in a press conference, where he expressed sympathy for the protesters' frustrations but also acknowledged that there would be consequences for those involved in destructive acts.

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, addressing the incident, took a forthright stance, saying, “There is no honor in the legacy of Christopher Columbus.” She added that she would not feign sadness over the statue's removal.

Claims of Foreknowledge and Inaction

The IACRL's criticisms are underscored by allegations that Walz had prior knowledge of the planned toppling of the Columbus statue but chose not to act. Crispi noted, “He knew they were coming, and he did nothing to protect the statue.” This inaction, according to the IACRL, reflects a broader issue of neglect and contempt for Italian American symbols and history within the state’s leadership.

State Republicans have similarly condemned Walz, aligning themselves with the sentiment that the governor’s handling of the riots and its fallout was inadequate. The narrative that Walz allowed “rioters to pillage and plunder” during this period has gained traction, especially among his political opponents.

Views from Inside and Outside the Community

Among Italian Americans, the reactions to the call for Walz’s resignation have been mixed. While the IACRL and supporters like Crispi paint a picture of betrayal and neglect, others within the community see a more nuanced reality.

An unnamed Italian immigrant, in contrast to the IACRL’s stance, voiced support for both Harris and Walz. This individual contended that Christopher Columbus does not singularly represent Italian heritage and emphasized the importance of addressing the historical context of Columbus’s actions.

Columbus Day, first celebrated in 1892 following a lynching of Italians in New Orleans, and later established as a federal holiday in 1971, remains a contentious symbol. For many, it represents Italian American pride; for others, it is a reminder of colonial violence.

Broader Impact of the Controversy

The controversy surrounding Walz’s handling of the Columbus statue incident has brought to light broader tensions and divisions within both the Italian American community and the political landscape at large.

It has sparked discussions about the place of historical figures in public memory and the responsibilities of public officials in navigating such complex issues.

As calls for his resignation persist, Walz faces a critical juncture. His decisions and actions in the coming days could shape both his political future and the ongoing discourse about heritage and symbolism in America.