You Celebrate, We Celebrate, Let us all Celebrate!

Celebrating Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day can vary greatly depending on personal values, community traditions, and regional practices.

Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday in October, traditionally commemorates Christopher Columbus’s landing in the Americas on October 12, 1492. The day has historically been seen as a celebration of Italian-American heritage and Columbus’s exploration.

Columbus Day remains a federal holiday in the U.S., with many government offices and schools closed, though some states and cities no longer recognize it.

Some celebrate Columbus Day by engaging in educational events that focus on a balanced view of history, considering both the achievements of exploration and the consequences for Indigenous populations. But in recent years, many have questioned Columbus’s legacy, pointing to the harmful effects of colonization on Indigenous peoples, including violence, enslavement, and the spread of disease.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day, also observed on the second Monday of October, celebrates the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in the Americas. The day shifts the focus from European exploration to the resilience and importance of Native American and Indigenous communities.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day also serves as a day of remembrance and reflection on the injustices faced by Native peoples during and after colonization, including loss of land, culture, and lives. Events often focus on promoting awareness of these issues and advocating for Indigenous rights.

Many cities and states that observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day host cultural celebrations that include Native American music, dance, art, and storytelling. It’s a time for Indigenous people to share their traditions, values, and histories with the broader public.

Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day reflect two different historical narratives. Columbus Day tends to celebrate exploration and Italian-American heritage, while Indigenous Peoples’ Day shifts the focus toward Indigenous communities, their resilience, and their lasting contributions to society. No matter which holiday you celebrate, the volunteers at Itiah Angels for Learning hope that  you have a joyful and exciting October. Wishing you a Happy Halloween and a wonderful month ahead!