Columbus Day 2017 in the USA: History, Celebrations, and Controversies
Columbus Day, a federal holiday in the United States, was commemorated on October 9, 2017. The day honors Christopher Columbus, the Italian explorer who arrived in the Americas on October 12, 1492. While the holiday is celebrated nationwide, it has sparked controversy and debate in recent years. This article explores the history, celebrations, and controversies surrounding Columbus Day 2017 in the USA.
History of Columbus Day
Columbus Day originated as a celebration of Italian heritage and the achievements of Christopher Columbus. The first Columbus Day celebration took place in New York City on October 12, 1866, organized by the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal service organization. In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed Columbus Day a national holiday, and Congress made it a permanent federal holiday in 1968.
Christopher Columbus: Explorer or Colonizer?
Christopher Columbus is credited with discovering the Americas, although it is essential to note that indigenous peoples had been living in the Americas for thousands of years before his arrival. Columbus's voyages led to the colonization of the Americas by European powers, which had devastating consequences for the indigenous populations. This has led some to question whether Columbus should be celebrated as a hero.
Columbus Day Celebrations in 2017
In 2017, Columbus Day celebrations took place across the United States, with parades, festivals, and other events honoring Columbus and Italian-American heritage. Some of the most notable celebrations included:
- New York City: The city's annual Columbus Day Parade, organized by the Columbus Citizens Foundation, marched through Midtown Manhattan.
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: The city hosted its annual Columbus Day Parade and Festival, featuring Italian food, music, and cultural exhibits.
- San Francisco, California: Despite controversy surrounding the holiday, the city held a Columbus Day parade and festival in North Beach, the city's Italian neighborhood.
Columbus Day Controversies and Alternatives
In recent years, Columbus Day has become a contentious issue in the United States. Critics argue that the holiday celebrates a figure responsible for the genocide and oppression of indigenous peoples. As a result, many cities and states have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day or other alternative holidays.
| City/State | Holiday Replacement |
|---|---|
| Alaska | Indigenous Peoples' Day |
| Berkley, California | Indigenous Peoples' Day |
| Los Angeles, California | Indigenous Peoples' Day |
| Seattle, Washington | Indigenous Peoples' Day |
Supporters of these alternatives argue that they provide an opportunity to honor and recognize the contributions and experiences of indigenous peoples, while also acknowledging the dark history of European colonization. Opponents of these changes argue that they are an attempt to rewrite history or erase Columbus's accomplishments.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Columbus Day
The future of Columbus Day in the United States remains uncertain. As the debate surrounding the holiday continues, it is likely that more cities and states will consider replacing the holiday with alternatives that better reflect their values and priorities. Whether Columbus Day remains a federal holiday or is replaced by Indigenous Peoples' Day or another alternative, it is essential that the United States continues to engage in open and honest conversations about its history and the role of figures like Christopher Columbus.
![Columbus Day in 2017 or Indigenous Peoples' Day [Infographic] » Skillz](https://www.skillzme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/hero-image-columbus-day-2017.jpg)
