UPDATE: The Colorado Legislature has just approved a groundbreaking resolution to remove the last remnants of the controversial “On Guard” Civil War Monument from the state Capitol, replacing it with a memorial dedicated to the victims of the Sand Creek Massacre. This decision marks a significant step in acknowledging Colorado’s complex history, with immediate implications for its communities.
The bronze statue, created by Captain John “Jack” Howland, was intended to honor Colorado soldiers who fought in the Civil War. However, it has increasingly become a symbol of the state’s struggle to confront its past, particularly regarding the tragic events of November 29, 1864, when Colonel John Chivington led a violent raid on a peaceful Arapaho and Cheyenne camp, resulting in the deaths of over 200 men, women, and children. This act, deemed a massacre by a Congressional investigation, continues to ignite discussions about accountability and historical memory in Colorado.
Following widespread public outcry and a series of protests, including the vandalism of the statue during the George Floyd protests in May 2020, the Colorado government is taking decisive action. The statue, which has been in storage at History Colorado, will now be permanently relocated, and its granite base will also be moved to a new site under the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
The empty space in front of the Capitol will not remain vacant for long. The Colorado Legislature’s resolution promises a new memorial honoring the land’s original inhabitants and those lost at Sand Creek, reflecting a commitment to reconciliation and education. This shift comes as part of a broader movement across the United States to reassess monuments that fail to acknowledge the complexities of history.
The recent discussions surrounding the monument have opened a vital dialogue among Coloradans about their shared past. As one official noted, “the controversy surrounding the Civil War Monument has become a symbol of Coloradans’ struggle to understand and take responsibility for our past.” This sentiment was echoed by former Governor John Hickenlooper, who publicly apologized to the descendants of Sand Creek victims in 2014.
As the state prepares for Veterans’ Day, the urgency of recognizing historical injustices is palpable. The Colorado community is encouraged to engage in discussions about what this change means for them, with plans for public forums at History Colorado, where the statue has been displayed with its graffiti intact, prompting reflections on its significance.
In a powerful move towards healing, the Colorado Legislature’s decision reflects a growing recognition of the need for historical accountability. The memorialization of the Sand Creek Massacre aims to honor those who suffered and ensure that their stories are never forgotten.
As the community looks forward to the new memorial, all eyes are on Colorado as it leads the charge in transforming the narrative surrounding its history. What happens next will not only shape the Capitol’s landscape but will also influence the ongoing conversation about racial justice and remembrance across the nation.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
