Indigenous People's Day or Columbus Day or Both?

 The Origins of Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Indigenous Peoples’ Day emerged as a response to the celebration of Columbus Day, which commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492. While Columbus Day has traditionally been seen as a celebration of exploration and European heritage, it is also associated with the beginning of centuries of colonization, violence, displacement, and cultural suppression experienced by Indigenous peoples.

The movement for Indigenous Peoples’ Day started in the early 2010s, with activists and Native communities advocating for a day that recognizes Native American history and contributions, rather than celebrating colonial conquest. The first official observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day took place in 2014 in Berkeley, California, and since then, many cities and states have adopted it.

When Was It Made a Federal Holiday?

As of October 2023, Indigenous Peoples’ Day has not been designated as a federal holiday. Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, observed on the second Monday of October. However, there has been an ongoing legislative and cultural movement to replace or supplement Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day at the state and local levels.

Several states and cities have officially recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Day, including California, South Dakota, Alaska, and parts of New York and New Mexico. These recognitions serve as a step toward acknowledging the history and rights of Indigenous peoples, but a federal holiday has yet to be established.

The Relationship Between Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Columbus Day

The relationship between the two holidays is complex. Columbus Day has historically celebrated European exploration and expansion, but it has also been criticized for ignoring the suffering and injustices faced by Indigenous peoples since 1492. Many Native communities see Columbus Day as a symbol of colonization, genocide, and cultural erasure.

In contrast, Indigenous Peoples’ Day aims to honor Native Americans’ histories, cultures, and contributions—highlighting their resilience and ongoing struggles. It serves as a reminder to rethink how history is celebrated and to promote awareness and respect for Indigenous communities.

By understanding this history, we can better appreciate the significance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day and support efforts to honor Indigenous communities and their enduring legacy.