Alexander Baranof was a Russian colonist who came to Sitka, Alaska, without an invitation, to enrich himself, his company and his country. In 1804 he led the armed assault on the local Tlingit people who have lived in this area for over 10,000 years. A bronze statue of Baranof currently sits on public land outside of Centennial Hall. The misleading Baranof quote under this racially problematic statue says, “that we may dwell in amity and peace forever in this region”. Since it’s installation in 1989 many Sitkans have advocated for its removal: (https://www.kcaw.org/2017/11/27/statue-russian-leader-sparks-controversy/ Now is the time for our elected leaders  to finally move the statue.