Justin Brannan, a Democrat representing Brooklyn, has been removed from the City Council’s Italian Caucus for his position on Columbus Day. Brannan’s willingness to consider renaming the holiday as Italian-American Heritage Day has put him at odds with the caucus, which is determined to preserve Columbus Day.
Councilman David Carr (R-Staten Island), chair of the caucus, explained that Brannan’s stance conflicted with the group’s goals, which include protecting Columbus Day from efforts to rename it. “There’s no room for negotiation when it comes to Columbus Day,” Carr told The Post.
Brannan responded by saying his identity as an Italian-American isn’t affected by a “MAGA litmus test.” He argued that most Italian-Americans use Columbus Day to celebrate their culture and contributions to America, rather than honoring Columbus himself. He also supports the idea of Indigenous peoples having their own holiday.
The caucus revised its bylaws following Brannan’s 2023 comments to ensure that members fully support Columbus Day. As a result, Brannan was not invited to this year’s City Council Italian Heritage Celebration, hosted by other members of the caucus.
Councilman Robert Holden (D-Queens) supported Brannan’s removal, accusing him of embracing “wokeism” and failing to protect Italian heritage. The caucus remains unified in its stance on keeping Columbus Day as a key part of their cultural celebration.