What day is Columbus Holiday? Columbus Holiday, also known as Indigenous People’s Day in some places, is celebrated on the second Monday of October each year. This holiday commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. While it is a federal holiday in the United States, its significance varies from one region to another, with some celebrating the day as a tribute to Columbus’s exploration, while others recognize it as a day to honor the indigenous peoples who were affected by his arrival. Let’s delve into the history and traditions of this holiday.
Columbus Holiday has its roots in the early 20th century when the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization, began promoting the celebration of Columbus’s arrival. In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a proclamation making Columbus Day a federal holiday. However, the holiday’s date has been a subject of debate over the years, with some advocating for the second Monday in October to be observed as Columbus Day.
The celebration of Columbus Holiday varies across the United States. In some states, such as New York and South Dakota, Columbus Day is still widely recognized and celebrated. Parades, festivals, and speeches often mark the occasion, highlighting the achievements of Christopher Columbus. However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to rename the holiday to Indigenous People’s Day or Native American Day, as a way to acknowledge the negative impact Columbus’s arrival had on indigenous populations.
In cities like Berkeley, California, and Seattle, Washington, Indigenous People’s Day has been officially adopted as an alternative name for Columbus Day. These cities recognize the holiday as an opportunity to honor the indigenous peoples who have lived in the Americas for thousands of years and to acknowledge the struggles they have faced due to European colonization.
Columbus Holiday also serves as a time for reflection and education. Many schools and organizations use the occasion to teach about the history of the Americas, the contributions of indigenous peoples, and the complex legacy of Christopher Columbus. This holiday provides an opportunity to discuss the ongoing issues faced by indigenous communities and to promote cultural understanding and respect.
In conclusion, the Columbus Holiday is celebrated on the second Monday of October each year, commemorating the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas. While the holiday’s significance varies from one region to another, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the complex history of the Americas and to honor the indigenous peoples who have lived in the region for thousands of years. Whether you celebrate it as Columbus Day or Indigenous People’s Day, this holiday serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Americas and the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities.
