Is Columbus Day a Federal Holiday in USA?
Columbus Day is a holiday celebrated in the United States on the second Monday of October each year. It commemorates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. However, the question arises: Is Columbus Day a federal holiday in the USA? The answer is not straightforward and has evolved over time.
Initially, Columbus Day was not a federal holiday. It was first celebrated in New York City in 1792, marking the 300th anniversary of Columbus’s arrival. The celebration spread across the United States, and by the late 19th century, it had become a common holiday in many states. In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a bill making Columbus Day a federal holiday, recognizing the significance of Columbus’s journey and his role in the discovery of the New World.
However, the status of Columbus Day as a federal holiday has been a subject of debate and controversy. Many people argue that the holiday glorifies the violent and oppressive colonization of the Americas, which resulted in the displacement and suffering of indigenous peoples. As a result, some states and cities have chosen to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day or Native American Day, which celebrates the contributions and resilience of Native American cultures.
In 1992, President George H.W. Bush signed a law designating October 12 as National Columbus Day, but it remains a federal holiday without a specific day of the week. This means that the date of Columbus Day can vary each year, depending on the second Monday in October. In some years, it falls on October 12, while in others, it may be earlier or later in the month.
The controversy surrounding Columbus Day has led to a growing movement to recognize the contributions of Native Americans and other indigenous peoples. As a result, some states and local governments have chosen to rename the holiday and celebrate the rich history and culture of indigenous communities.
In conclusion, while Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States, its status as a holiday has been a subject of debate and change. The ongoing discussion about the holiday’s significance reflects the broader conversation about the history and legacy of colonization and the importance of recognizing the contributions of indigenous peoples.
