Today is recognized as Columbus Day, but I choose to celebrate Indigenous People’s Day, honoring the original inhabitants of our country and promoting cultural awareness and respect for Indigenous communities.
Today is recognized as Columbus Day, according to my calendar and authorized by the federal government. However, I choose to celebrate Indigenous PThe calendar recognizes today as Columbus Day, and the federal government authorizes it. However, most people choose to celebrate Indigenous People’s Day, honoring the original inhabitants of our great country.
This morning, during the news broadcast, the newscaster struggled several times to say “Columbus Day” because he actually intended to wish viewers a “Happy Indigenous People’s Day.”
Let’s explore the reasons behind the differing perspectives on Columbus Day and Indigenous People’s Day, and why many prefer to use the latter in their everyday language. Sit back, relax, and as you enjoy your morning coffee, consider some of the important theories and viewpoints surrounding this holiday debate.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a holiday that celebrates and honors the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples and their communities. It is observed in various forms across the United States, often on the second Monday of October, which coincides with Columbus Day. However, many communities and states have chosen to recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of, or alongside, Columbus Day.
Why does Indigenous Peoples’ Day matter over Columbus Day?
- Acknowledgment of Indigenous Histories: Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors Native peoples’ histories, cultures, and contributions that are often overlooked or marginalized.
- Reconciliation and Healing: Celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day serves as a step toward recognizing historical injustices such as colonization, forced removal, and cultural suppression. It also promotes reconciliation.
- Challenging Historical Narratives: Columbus Day commemorates Columbus’s arrival in the Americas, a moment linked to colonialism and violence. In contrast, Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates Indigenous resilience and resistance.
- Cultural Preservation: The day offers an opportunity to raise awareness, educate, and preserve Indigenous languages, traditions, and rights.
- Political and Social Significance: Recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day supports Indigenous sovereignty and rights. It encourages policies that respect Indigenous communities and address ongoing issues like land rights and systemic inequality.
Overall, Indigenous Peoples’ Day emphasizes respect, recognition, and the importance of Indigenous histories and cultures. It fosters a more inclusive and accurate understanding of history compared to the traditional celebration of Columbus Day.
Who was Christopher Columbus?
Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer, completed four Atlantic voyages in the late 15th century. His expeditions paved the way for European exploration and colonization of the Americas.
More:
Former President Joe Biden issued the first presidential proclamation for Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 2021, on the same date as Columbus Day. While not recognized as a federal holiday, it is recognized as a holiday in some cities and states. The proclamation followed years of criticism over Christopher Columbus’ treatment of Native Americans.
Columbus Day is a national holiday celebrated in many countries of the Americas and other regions. In the United States, it is recognized as a federal holiday. The day officially commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas, which occurred when he landed at Guanahaní in the Bahamas on October 12, 1492.
In closing, today is a perfect day to reflect on who you truly are. Enjoy your life to the fullest and refuse to let anyone dictate how you feel about your heritage.
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