Native Justice or Historical Erasure: The Controversy Surrounding Indigenous Peoples' Day

Since 1937, Columbus Day has been a federal holiday commemorating the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1942. More recently, despite outcry and pushback, Indigenous Peoples' Day is gaining popularity and recognition as the “culturally appropriate” replacement for Columbus Day.

Critics argue that the revisionist change is painting Columbus in a negative light, while disregarding any positive contributions or historical significance of the holiday. They also question the validity of honoring Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Oct. 9, when Columbus' arrival is celebrated on Oct.12.

This year, on Oct. 9, Americans will have to choose between celebrating Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day, as both holidays fall on the same day. For some, this will be a difficult decision, as they may feel torn between honoring their Italian heritage and recognizing the suffering and mistreatment of Native Americans.

However, for others, it will be a clear choice. They will choose to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day out of a desire to acknowledge and honor the often overlooked and marginalized Native American culture and history.

A statue of Mother Cabrini at her shrine in Golden, Colorado. Cabrini was the first American citizen to be canonized by the Pope.

And how soon we forget, Colorado was the first state to designate Columbus Day as a state holiday more than 100 years ago – replaced it in 2020 with a new state holiday (on the first Monday in October) honoring Frances Xavier Cabrini, a Catholic nun and Italian immigrant who founded dozens of schools, hospitals and orphanages to serve poor.

As divisive as this debate may be, one thing is for sure: the celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day has sparked a much-needed conversation about our nation's history and treatment of indigenous people. It is a reminder to honor and respect the diverse cultures and peoples that make up this great country.