Is Columbus Day a National Holiday? Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the U.S., observed on the second Monday in October, honoring Christopher Columbus’s arrival in America.
Table of Contents
Columbus Day is a national holiday in the United States. It commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492. This day is celebrated on the second Monday in October. While it is a federal holiday, its observance varies across the country.
Historical Context of Columbus Day
Columbus Day has a complex history. It began as a celebration of Italian-American heritage. The first official celebration occurred in 1792, marking the 300th anniversary of Columbus’s landing. However, it wasn’t until 1937 that it became a federal holiday. This was partly in response to anti-Italian sentiment and violence against Italian Americans in the late 19th century.
In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson signed legislation to establish Columbus Day as a federal holiday, effective from 1971. Since then, it has been recognized on the second Monday of October each year.
Current Status of Columbus Day
Despite being a federal holiday, Columbus Day is not uniformly observed. Many states and cities have chosen to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day instead. This shift reflects growing awareness of the negative impacts of colonization on Native American communities.
As of now, about 29 states and Washington D.C. do not observe Columbus Day. Some have officially replaced it with Indigenous Peoples Day or recognize it alongside Columbus Day. This dual recognition highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the holiday’s significance.
Table: Comparison of Observance by State
| State | Observance Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | Indigenous Peoples Day | Official state holiday |
| Colorado | Columbus Day | Replaced by Frances Xavier Cabrini Day |
| New York | Columbus Day | Celebrated with parades |
| South Dakota | Indigenous Peoples Day | Official state holiday |
| Tennessee | Legal Holiday | Governor can substitute with Thanksgiving |
What Happens on Columbus Day?
On Columbus Day, federal offices are closed. Many public schools also observe the day off. However, some businesses remain open, and services may vary by location. For instance, banks typically close, while others like Walmart and Target may operate normally.
The U.S. Postal Service does not deliver mail on this day. However, some private courier services may still operate.
The Debate Surrounding Columbus Day
The conversation about Columbus Day has become increasingly polarized. Supporters argue that it honors Italian-American heritage and celebrates exploration. Critics contend that it glorifies an era that led to violence against Indigenous peoples.
In recent years, many have called for a reevaluation of how we commemorate this day. The Biden administration has issued proclamations recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day, emphasizing the importance of honoring Native American history and culture.
In summary, is Columbus Day a national holiday? Yes, it is recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. However, its observance is inconsistent across states and communities due to changing perspectives on its historical implications. The shift towards recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day reflects broader societal changes regarding how we remember our past and honor all communities affected by historical events.
Columbus Day remains a topic of discussion as more people advocate for a more inclusive approach to holidays that recognize both history and heritage.
Discover more from Majhi Naukri
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
