Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday in October, has become a controversial holiday in the United States. President Biden, along with many states and localities, has proclaimed it Indigenous Peoples’ Day, in recognition of the indigenous peoples who were impacted by Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Americas. However, this proclamation does not necessarily change the official status of the holiday. Only 16 states and American Samoa currently observe Columbus Day as an official public holiday. Many other states have renamed or replaced the holiday to honor Native Americans or other causes. Additionally, some states do not observe the holiday at all. The observance of Columbus Day has been fading in recent years, with more states opting for alternative celebrations or doing away with the holiday entirely.
The controversy surrounding Columbus Day stems from growing recognition of the negative impacts of European colonization on native peoples. Many argue that it is inappropriate to celebrate Columbus, who is seen as a symbol of colonization and oppression. As a result, states have taken different approaches to the holiday. Some, like California and Delaware, have dropped the holiday completely. Others, such as Maine, New Mexico, Vermont, and D.C., have renamed it Indigenous Peoples’ Day while keeping it as an official holiday. Some states, like Colorado and South Dakota, have designated alternative holidays to honor different individuals or groups. The observance of Columbus Day varies greatly across the country, reflecting the ongoing debate over its significance and appropriateness.
The changing status of Columbus Day has been primarily driven by state actions. Many states have passed laws or issued proclamations to redefine or replace the holiday. Indigenous Peoples’ Day has gained popularity as an alternative, with numerous cities and states adopting it. However, the federal holiday designation for the second Monday in October remains Columbus Day. This disconnect between federal and state observances further highlights the controversy surrounding the holiday. Columbus Day, once celebrated as a day off with pay for many Americans, has become an inconsistent and divisive holiday.
In conclusion, the observance of Columbus Day in the United States has become a matter of controversy and debate. President Biden and many states have proclaimed it Indigenous Peoples’ Day, but this does not change the official federal holiday designation. Only 16 states and American Samoa currently observe Columbus Day as an official public holiday. Other states have either renamed or replaced the holiday to honor native peoples or dropped it altogether. The changing status of the holiday reflects a growing recognition of the negative impacts of colonization and an ongoing debate over the appropriateness of celebrating Columbus.
