Is today a federal holiday Columbus Day? This question often arises, especially as the United States celebrates a wide range of holidays. Columbus Day, which commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492, is one of the most debated and misunderstood holidays in the country. In this article, we will explore the history, significance, and current status of Columbus Day as a federal holiday in the United States.
The celebration of Columbus Day began in the late 19th century, initially as a way to promote Italian-American pride and to honor the achievements of Christopher Columbus. In 1892, the first large-scale celebration of Columbus Day took place in New York City, organized by the Knights of Columbus, an Italian-American fraternal organization. Over time, other states and cities began to recognize Columbus Day as an official holiday.
However, the debate over the holiday’s appropriateness has grown in recent years. Many Native American groups and other critics argue that Columbus Day should not be celebrated, as it commemorates the beginning of European colonization and the oppression of indigenous peoples in the Americas. As a result, some states and cities have replaced Columbus Day with Native American Heritage Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which aims to recognize the contributions and history of Native Americans.
The status of Columbus Day as a federal holiday has also been a point of contention. Currently, it is not a federal holiday. In 1971, President Richard Nixon signed a law making Columbus Day a federal holiday, to be observed on the second Monday in October. However, in 2021, President Joe Biden signed an executive order changing the federal holiday from Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day, acknowledging the contributions of Native Americans and recognizing the holiday’s historical significance.
Despite this change, the debate over whether to celebrate Columbus Day as a federal holiday continues. Some argue that the holiday should remain as a way to honor Christopher Columbus’s exploration and the cultural exchanges that followed. Others believe that it is more important to acknowledge the negative impacts of colonization and to celebrate the rich history and culture of Native Americans.
In conclusion, the question of whether today is a federal holiday Columbus Day is a complex one. While it is not currently a federal holiday, the holiday remains a point of contention and debate. As the United States continues to grapple with its history and the impact of colonization, the future of Columbus Day as a federal holiday may continue to evolve.
