President Donald Trump used commemorations of Columbus Day and Leif Erikson Day to whitewash historical events, including a nod to a reference popular among white supremacists.

In his Columbus Day proclamation, released on Thursday, Trump praised Christopher Columbus as “one of the most gallant and visionary men to ever walk the face of the earth,” while complaining about “left-wing arsonists who have sought to destroy his name and dishonor his memory.”

The proclamation also alleges that Columbus has been “a prime target of a vicious and merciless campaign to erase our history, slander our heroes, and attack our heritage.”

While signing the proclamation during a televised Cabinet meeting, Trump said, “We’re back, Italians! We love the Italians!” Of course, Columbus Day never went away.

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