A group of Italian Americans laid a wreath at Seaside Park in Bridgeport Monday where a statue of Christopher Columbus once stood.

Monday's holiday is observed as both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day.

Bridgeport City Councilman Jorge Cruz, a Latino American, says the truth has been revealed about what Columbus was really like. He accused Columbus of raping, enslaving and killing his ancestors.

Cruz says he was at the park this summer when the city of Bridgeport removed the statue.

Italian Americans, including former state Rep. Chris Caruso, say they wanted to recognize Columbus for his perseverance, courage and navigational skills.

They say they hope the statue will go back up again.

Bridgeport officials say they're waiting for the city attorney to advise the Parks Commission on the next steps for restoration of the statue at Seaside Park.