During my brief time living in Bristol, I learned of the questionable relationship the city has with one of its famous historical figures: Edward Colston.

He was a philanthropist. He funded schools, hospitals and other social programs. According to Wikipedia, “Many of his charitable foundations survive to this day”.

Colston was also a slave trader.

Beneficial or not, his contributions were paid for with human lives.

His statue in the English city was torn down recently during the Black Lives Matter protests. Much like the Robert E. Lee monument in Charlottesville, Virginia, it seems these relics of another era have met their timely demise.

Some will argue that these statues and monuments should be preserved as they are, due to their historical significance.

I agree, in some sense. These figures should, without question, be remembered and acknowledged for their role in history. But they should not be glorified.

This is why we have museums.

These people should be put on display; though not in parks and squares. Turn them into exhibits, publicly accessed, with a clear and accurate story of who they were, what they stood for — good and bad — and why they have a place in history.

Pedestals should glorify the saviours, the inspirational, the heroes and heroines of humanity.

Archive the stains of history.

Praise those who deserve it.

Photo: Edward Colston statue, Bristol, England.