Columbus Day

Columbus Day: A Historical Blunder or a Much Needed Wake-Up Call?

Discover the chaos behind Columbus Day's origins and why it’s time for a change!

Columbus Day, celebrated on the second Monday of October, is more than a day off for many; it represents a historical conundrum that highlights the complexities of cultural recognition in America. Originally established to honor Christopher Columbus, the day has become a point of contention, particularly as Americans grapple with issues of historical accuracy and social justice. Far from a straightforward celebration of discovery, Columbus Day's origins are wrapped in the mistreatment of Indigenous peoples and the not-so-fabulous history of anti-Italian sentiment during the late 19th century. Ironically, its establishment was as much about celebrating Italian-American pride as it was about celebrating Columbus himself.

The political climate that birthed Columbus Day was rife with racial tension. In an era marked by significant anti-Italian violence, the day was conceived as a response to mitigate prejudice and foster a sense of belonging among Italian immigrants. President Benjamin Harrison’s efforts in the late 1890s to recognize Columbus aimed to bridge cultural divisions, yet ultimately made a mess of historical narratives—turning a spotlight on Columbus while overshadowing the stark realities faced by the Indigenous populations who lived on this land long before his arrival.