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The Christopher Columbus statue which is displayed on the front lawn of the Walla Walla Courthouse was defaced with the words "Stolen Land" and "Genocide" spray painted across the front. A suspect was observed by a surveillance camera, approaching the statue on June 30, 2020 at 11:55 p.m. The Walla Walla Sheriff's Office is investigating.
WALLA WALLA–The statue of Christopher Columbus, which resides on the lawn in front of the Walla Walla County Courthouse, was vandalized with spray paint late in the evening of June 30 or early in the morning of July 1. A surveillance camera captured a possible suspect approaching the statue at approximately 11:55 p.m. The Walla Walla Sheriff's Office is investigating.
In a release, the Walla Walla County Commissioners (BOCC) expressed their understanding of the concern many citizens may have regarding the appropriateness of the statue remaining in place. However, they cannot and will not condone vandalism to promote meaningful conversation or change. Blatant disrespect for the law diminishes the credibility, rationale and character of those involved.
In the near future the BOCC will endeavor to engage the community in substantive discussions surrounding the statue and its future at its current location.
The statue has since been cleaned.
