In our journey towards a more just future, it’s crucial to recognize past events, especially when they involve the Indigenous peoples who first inhabited this land. According to President Joe Biden’s 2023 Indigenous Peoples’ Day proclamation, the story of America’s Indigenous peoples is one of resilience and survival, marked by their commitment to self-governance and the preservation of their cultures and identities. This narrative is now celebrated on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a day that highlights their vibrant histories and cultures. But why did we shift from Columbus Day to this more inclusive celebration?

The Origins of Columbus Day

Columbus Day was originally created to celebrate Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Americas in 1492. This day aimed to honor Italian American heritage, especially during a time when Italian immigrants faced widespread discrimination in the United States. However, the way people view Columbus Day has changed over time and has become more controversial. Leo Killsback, a professor of American Indian Studies, argues that Columbus Day represents the violent history of colonization in the Western hemisphere.

Christopher Columbus, once celebrated as a heroic explorer, is now recognized by many as someone whose arrival marked the beginning of severe oppression for Indigenous peoples. After Columbus’ arrival, Native Americans faced numerous atrocities, including forced removal from their lands, massacres, and the destruction of their cultures. This painful history has led many to question whether Columbus should be celebrated at all.

Columbus Day was federally recognized in 1937, but as awareness grew about the negative impacts of Columbus’ voyages on Indigenous communities, opinions started to shift. Activists and scholars began to highlight the suffering and injustices that Indigenous peoples endured following European colonization. These changing perspectives have driven the movement to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Many people now feel that continuing to celebrate Columbus Day ignores the suffering and harm experienced by Native Americans. Instead, there is a growing call to recognize and honor Indigenous peoples’ resilience, strength, and contributions through Indigenous Peoples’ Day. By shifting the focus away from Columbus and towards Indigenous communities, we can begin to address historical wrongs and promote a more inclusive and accurate understanding of history.

The Birth of Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Indigenous Peoples’ Day emerged as a response to historical injustices faced by Native Americans. The idea for this day was first proposed in 1977 during a United Nations conference on discrimination against Indigenous populations. Over time, there was a growing recognition of the need to uplift Indigenous communities and acknowledge their struggles.

In 1992, Berkeley, California, became one of the first cities to officially replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, setting a precedent for others to follow. This movement gained momentum, and by the early 2000s, various states and municipalities began adopting Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day. California Congresswoman Norma Torres believes that making Indigenous Peoples’ Day a federal holiday is an important step in addressing historical injustices and supporting Indigenous communities. This shift was driven by the desire to recognize the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples.

In a landmark move, President Joe Biden became the first U.S. president to issue a proclamation recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 2021. President Joe Biden’s proclamation in 2021 marked the first time a U.S. president formally acknowledged Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This recognition by the federal government underscored the importance of honoring Native American histories and cultures and encouraged other states and cities to follow suit.

As more communities across the nation embrace Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and enduring spirit of Native American peoples. It marks a significant shift towards acknowledging and honoring the contributions and histories of Indigenous communities.

Why The Change Is Important

Changing Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day is important because it helps us understand colonization’s deep and lasting effects. Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas marked the beginning of a very difficult time for Native Americans. The Native American population shrank by about half after European contact, due to the kidnapping, enslavement, forced assimilation, rape, and sexual abuse perpetrated by Columbus and his crew.

Many people don’t learn much about the history of Native Americans in school. Shannon Speed, director of the American Indian Studies Center at UCLA, has pointed out that most of her students have not received education on the history of Native Americans in the U.S. Recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day helps raise awareness about these overlooked histories and encourages broader discussions about the past and present realities of Indigenous communities.

This change is also about respect. Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors the resilience and strength of Native American peoples. Celebrating their cultures and histories is a step towards acknowledging the injustices they have faced and continue to face. It allows us to show respect and appreciation for their contributions to our shared history. Learning and reflecting on these truths can foster a more inclusive and understanding society.

Recognizing Indigenous Cultures and Contributions

Indigenous Peoples’ Day also shines a light on the significant contributions of Native Americans. Indigenous Americans serve in the U.S. military at five times the national average, and they receive special honors at community gatherings, underscoring their deep-rooted commitment to the nation. However, many people still view Native Americans as relics of the past rather than as vibrant communities that continue to thrive today. Shannon Speed has observed that her students often perceive Native Americans as historical figures rather than contemporary communities practicing their cultures today. By celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor these ongoing cultural practices and recognize the enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples.

This holiday also helps people learn about the rich and diverse cultures of Native American communities. Many Native American traditions, such as music, dance, art, and storytelling, are still practiced today and play an important role in their communities. These cultural practices are a way for Indigenous peoples to keep their heritage alive and to pass it on to future generations.

By recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we acknowledge not just the hardships and injustices faced by Native Americans but also their contributions to society. Their knowledge and traditions, like sustainable farming and natural medicine, have positively influenced many aspects of modern life.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day encourages everyone to appreciate and respect the unique cultures and histories of Native American communities. It provides an opportunity for people to learn about and celebrate the many ways Indigenous peoples contribute to our shared history and future.

How States and Cities Are Celebrating

Across the United States, more states and cities are embracing Indigenous Peoples’ Day. As of 2024, 17 states, including Washington, South Dakota, and Maine, as well as Washington, D.C., officially recognize holidays that honor Indigenous communities. More than a dozen states have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, signifying a broader shift in perspective. More than a dozen states have adopted some version of Indigenous Peoples’ Day in place of Columbus Day. From cultural festivals to educational events, these celebrations highlight the diversity and richness of Indigenous cultures.

In Oregon, for example, residents can participate in various events celebrating Native American culture and Indigenous peoples. These events often include traditional music, dance performances, storytelling sessions, and educational workshops that allow people to learn about the histories and contributions of Indigenous communities. In addition to cultural activities, some cities hold public discussions and panels to address the challenges faced by Native American communities today, promoting awareness and understanding.

These celebrations are not just about looking back at the past; they also focus on honoring the present-day contributions of Indigenous peoples. Local schools and universities often get involved by organizing events and activities that educate students and the community about Native American heritage. By engaging in these activities, communities across the nation are fostering a deeper respect and appreciation for Indigenous cultures and histories, ensuring that the legacy and traditions of Native American peoples continue to thrive.

The Role of Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Education

Education plays a vital role in the observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Unfortunately, many students have not been taught about the history and contributions of Native Americans. Shannon Speed, director of the American Indian Studies Center at UCLA, notes that most of her university students lack education about the U.S.’s treatment of Native Americans. Changing this narrative is essential for fostering understanding and respect. Indigenous Peoples’ Day serves as an opportunity to educate others about the vibrant cultures and significant contributions of Native American communities.

Across schools and universities, educators are incorporating more lessons about Indigenous histories, traditions, and ongoing struggles. Activities such as guest lectures, workshops, and cultural events provide students with firsthand knowledge and experiences that deepen their appreciation for Native American heritage. This enhanced educational focus helps dismantle stereotypes and promotes a more accurate and inclusive view of American history.

Moreover, Indigenous Peoples’ Day encourages us to reflect on contemporary issues facing Native communities. By understanding the historical context, students can better grasp the challenges Indigenous peoples face today, from land rights to cultural preservation. This awareness fosters empathy and support for Indigenous rights and initiatives.

As we continue to integrate Indigenous perspectives into our education system, we move closer to a society that values and honors the rich, diverse heritage of Native American peoples. By doing so, we acknowledge past injustices and celebrate Indigenous communities’ enduring contributions and resilience.

Federal Recognition and Future Steps

As of 2024, the United States will observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day alongside Columbus Day for the fourth consecutive year. This will mark the fourth consecutive year that the United States observes Indigenous Peoples’ Day alongside Columbus Day. Many states have already replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and efforts are ongoing to achieve federal recognition. Currently, 29 states have chosen not to celebrate Columbus Day, opting instead for Indigenous Peoples’ Day or other names. This shift is critical to acknowledging and honoring Indigenous histories and contributions.

Federal recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day would mean a lot. It would officially honor the histories and cultures of Native American communities at a national level. While the journey toward federal recognition continues, more states, cities, and schools are already taking steps to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This growing movement reflects a broader effort to correct historical injustices and bring greater respect and visibility to Indigenous peoples and their contributions.

Personal Reflection and Community Involvement

Reflecting on this shift in observance, we must acknowledge the impact of colonialism on Indigenous cultures. According to State Sen. Rob Wagner of Oregon, native Oregonians’ culture and history have been significantly altered, misrepresented, and harmed by colonialism. Community involvement and personal reflection are essential in understanding the importance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. In Oregon, for example, nine confederated tribes and about 140,000 Indigenous people from Central America and Mexico call the state home. The University of Oregon reports that the state is home to nine confederated tribes, with around 140,000 Indigenous people from Central America and Mexico. By participating in local events and learning about Indigenous cultures, we can contribute to a more inclusive and respectful society.

Engaging with Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrations is an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the unique contributions and rich histories of Native American communities. Attend local festivals, listen to Indigenous speakers, and participate in educational workshops to gain a deeper understanding. This active participation honors Indigenous cultures and fosters empathy and respect.

We can create a more inclusive community by reflecting on our understanding and challenging misconceptions. Let’s use Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a chance to bridge gaps, celebrate diversity, and promote justice for Indigenous peoples. Your involvement, whether through attending events or learning more about Indigenous histories, makes a significant difference in honoring and supporting Native American communities.–MM

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/why-some-celebrate-indigenous-peoples-day-not-columbus-day

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Columbus-Day