Resolution to replace Junipero Serra statue in U.S. Capitol

by Joseph Saraceno

JUNII knew he was in the California State Capitol but didn’t know he was in the U.S. as well.

A measure calling for the statue of Father Junipero Serra in the U.S. Capitol to be replaced with one of NASA astronaut Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, was shelved in the Legislature on Thursday.

The measure has been controversial since it was introduced in January. Roman Catholics in particular have criticized the proposal to remove the likeness of Serra, an 18th century Franciscan friar who created the California mission system and whose legacy has been controversial. MORE