There have been mounting movements in the United States, to remove monuments which commemorate known slave holders/slave trade facilitators, and in some cases to change names of buildings, towns, etc. which also are commemorative of centuries of racial bias.

To truly move forward as a nation, we must disavow all references commemorating our country's despicable, racist past.  Remember those things in the history books, but do not allow them to be celebrated. The very first place to begin should be our nation's capital, Washington DC.  

George Washington was a slave holder, for his entire life.  Being our country's first president does not excuse his actions or beliefs.

Christopher Columbus was even worse. Wherever he landed, in his explorations of the new world, he subjected the native inhabitants to slavery and forced labor. 

If we allow our nation's capital to continue to commemorate these two men, then how can we also say that we believe "all men are created equal"?

I propose that we change the name of our nation's capital to Lincoln FD (freedom district).  Abraham Lincoln was the first president to take action against slavery and promote freedom for all.  As such, he is a true hero and worthy of being commemorated for all time by having his name be the prime representation of our nation and all that we stand for.