Revisiting Columbus Day: A Call for Indigenous Peoples Day recognition
Revisiting Columbus Day: A Call for Indigenous Peoples Day recognition
The debate over whether the United States should continue recognizing Columbus Day as a national holiday or switch to honoring Indigenous Peoples Day instead has been gaining momentum. Christopher Columbus, the 15th-century explorer who set foot on the Americas, is often associated with the discovery of a new world. However, the establishment of Columbus Day has roots in the political and social climate of the 19th century, particularly the xenophobic treatment of Italian immigrants.
The Origins of Columbus Day
Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas in 1492 and set in motion the events that led to the existence of modern-day North, South, and Central America, including the United States. However, the origins of Columbus Day are more complex. The holiday was first officially recognized by President Benjamin Harrison in 1892, marking the 400th anniversary of Columbus's arrival in the New World.
The decision to celebrate Columbus with a national holiday was a response to the persecution of Italian immigrants in the United States during the late 19th century. Italian immigration surged in the 1870s, driven by the Italian Unification and a labor shortage in the Southern United States after the Civil War and the abolition of slavery. However, Italian immigrants faced significant discrimination, with many seen as dishonest, treacherous, and untrustworthy.
A Rocky History
The New Orleans lynching of Italians on March 14, 1891, was a pivotal event that escalated tensions. Eleven Italian immigrants were hanged by a mob, a rare occurrence at the time. The Italian government demanded justice and reparations, and the event sparked a humanitarian crisis. Despite these demands, no one was ever indicted or punished for the lynching.
The Cost of Recognition
President Benjamin Harrison declared October 12, 1892, as "Columbus Day," aiming to ease diplomatic tensions with the Italian government and placate Italian-Americans. However, the holiday came at a high cost. It celebrated a murderer and a tool of the Spanish, leaving Italian-American heritage underrepresented and unrecognized. This decision to recognize Columbus instead of Italian-American figures or even the Native American population suggests a favoritism towards European heritage.
Alternatives and Reflection
Many argue that William Leif Erikson should be recognized instead of Columbus, as he was the legitimate first European to set foot on North America. Others suggest alternative honors for Garibaldi, Leonardo Da Vinci, or Guglielmo Marconi. These figures represent Italian accomplishments without the dark legacy associated with Christopher Columbus.
For Indigenous Peoples Day, advocates argue that it would be a more inclusive and accurate nod to the rich history of Native American peoples, who were displaced and disenfranchised by European arrival. The Indigenous Peoples Movement seeks to acknowledge their contributions and revival, rather than secondary recognition via Columbus's arrival.
Conclusion: The Way Forward
The recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day over Columbus Day reflects a more inclusive and accurate representation of the American narrative. It promotes diversity, equity, and justice by honoring the generations of Native Americans who have lived on and contributed to this land. While Italian-Americans and other ethnic groups should celebrate their heritage, the current system often places undue heroism on a figure with a problematic legacy.
Therefore, it's time to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day. This change would not only reflect the true history of the Americas but also demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusivity in national holidays.