Columbus Day Holiday 2018: History, Celebrations, and Alternatives
Columbus Day, a federal holiday in the United States, is observed on the second Monday of October. In 2018, it fell on October 8th. This day commemorates Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492. However, the holiday's significance and the figure it honors have been subjects of controversy in recent years. Let's delve into the history, celebrations, and alternatives to Columbus Day 2018.
History of Columbus Day
Columbus Day was first celebrated in the U.S. in 1792, but it wasn't until 1937 that President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared it a national holiday. The day was meant to celebrate the "discovery" of America by Europeans, but it has since been criticized for overlooking the indigenous populations already living in the Americas and for romanticizing Columbus's legacy.
Controversy Surrounding Columbus Day
Columbus's treatment of indigenous peoples, including enslavement and violence, has led many to question whether he should be celebrated. Some argue that the holiday is a celebration of colonialism and genocide. This has led to a movement to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day, which honors the original inhabitants of the Americas.
Celebrations in 2018
Despite the controversy, Columbus Day was celebrated in many cities across the U.S. in 2018. Parades, festivals, and school closures were common. However, some cities and states have replaced or supplemented Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day (see below).
Columbus Day Parade in New York City
The largest Columbus Day parade in the U.S. took place in New York City in 2018. The parade featured floats, marching bands, and Italian cultural groups. It ended with a ceremony at the Columbus Monument in Columbus Circle.
Indigenous Peoples' Day: An Alternative to Columbus Day
In response to the controversy surrounding Columbus Day, many cities and states have adopted Indigenous Peoples' Day. This day celebrates the history and culture of indigenous peoples and recognizes their contributions to the Americas. As of 2018, over 70 cities and several states had adopted Indigenous Peoples' Day.
Cities That Celebrated Indigenous Peoples' Day in 2018
- Albuquerque, NM
- Berkley, CA
- Boulder, CO
- Cincinnati, OH
- Los Angeles, CA
- Minneapolis, MN
- Phoenix, AZ
- Seattle, WA
Columbus Day vs. Indigenous Peoples' Day: A Comparison
| Columbus Day | Indigenous Peoples' Day |
|---|---|
| Celebrates Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas | Honors the history and culture of indigenous peoples |
| Criticized for overlooking indigenous populations and romanticizing Columbus's legacy | Recognizes the contributions of indigenous peoples to the Americas |
| Observed on the second Monday of October | Observed on the same day as Columbus Day, or on a different day chosen by the city or state |
As the debate surrounding Columbus Day continues, it's clear that the holiday's significance is evolving. Whether you choose to celebrate Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples' Day, or both, it's important to approach the holiday with a nuanced understanding of its history and the people it affects.
