Is Columbus Day a National Holiday in USA?
Columbus Day, celebrated on the second Monday of October, is a federal holiday in the United States. However, it is not observed as a national holiday in all states. This raises the question: Is Columbus Day a national holiday in USA? The answer is somewhat complex, as it depends on how one defines “national holiday.”
Understanding the Status of Columbus Day
Columbus Day was first celebrated in 1792, marking the 300th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Americas. It was declared a federal holiday in 1937 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This means that federal employees are given the day off, and it is recognized as a federal holiday by the federal government. However, not all states observe Columbus Day as a holiday.
State Observance of Columbus Day
While Columbus Day is a federal holiday, only a few states, such as Alabama, California, and Hawaii, officially recognize it as a state holiday. In these states, state employees are given the day off, and schools may be closed. However, in most states, Columbus Day is not observed as a state holiday, and schools and businesses remain open.
Controversies Surrounding Columbus Day
The celebration of Columbus Day has been a subject of controversy for many years. Critics argue that the holiday glorifies the brutal colonization of the Americas by European powers, particularly Spain. They point to the widespread violence, oppression, and death that accompanied the arrival of Columbus and his crew. As a result, some people advocate for the holiday to be renamed or replaced with a more inclusive celebration that recognizes the contributions of Native Americans and other indigenous peoples.
Renaming and Replacing Columbus Day
In response to these criticisms, some cities and states have renamed Columbus Day. For example, South Dakota changed the holiday to Native American Day, and Berkeley, California, renamed it Indigenous People’s Day. These changes reflect a growing recognition of the importance of indigenous cultures and their struggles against colonization.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States, it is not observed as a national holiday in all states. The holiday’s status as a state holiday varies, and it remains a subject of controversy due to its association with the colonization of the Americas. As the conversation around the holiday continues, some states and cities are choosing to rename or replace it with a more inclusive celebration that recognizes the contributions of indigenous peoples.
