Thousands protest Columbus Day parades

Protesters yell at the Sons of Italy as they pass by in the Columbus Day parade in Denver.

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DENVER, Colorado (AP) -- American Indians and descendants marched in an anti-Columbus Day parade Saturday, and hours later Italian-Americans celebrated the explorer's arrival in the New World.

Hundreds of people waved Italian flags, played music and carried red, white and green balloons at an afternoon parade to honor Christopher Columbus. Protesters ripped down barricades and chanted "shame on you," saying the European settlement of America decimated native people.

Columbus Day parade organizer George Vendegnia, founder of the Sons of Italy in America, called it a success and said he planned future parades.

"We're here to celebrate our heritage and our rights," he said.

Seven people were arrested, but no violence was reported. A confrontation two years ago led to 150 arrests, and a 1992 parade was canceled because of concerns about violence.

At the morning parade, Aztec dancers in brilliant blue and gold feathered headdresses performed while sage was burned to purify and protect the marchers while summoning the spirits of their ancestors.

"They want to celebrate Columbus," said Lisa Simms, who helped organize the morning march. "We are here to commemorate the lives of our ancestors, the indigenous people who were already here."

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