The contentious debate between keeping controversial statues or removing them has reached a boiling point. In Syracuse, our discussion centers around a landmark of downtown, the Columbus Monument. A towering, 11-foot bronze statue of Christopher Columbus stands on top of a large pedestal.

On both sides of the debate there are passionate opinions on whether to keep or remove the statue. My opinion is one of opportunity. This is a chance to move forward instead of looking back. What if the way we interact with history is about to radically change?