While the celebration of Columbus Day has been met with controversy and opposition in recent years, with many cities and states replacing it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, there are still eight states that officially observe Columbus Day. These states continue to honor the traditional holiday, despite the growing trend towards alternative celebrations.
Historical Context of Columbus Day
To understand why some states still celebrate Columbus Day, it’s essential to examine the historical context surrounding the holiday. Columbus Day was first celebrated in the United States in 1792, when New York City held a 300th-anniversary celebration of Columbus’ landing. The holiday gained popularity in the late 19th century, particularly among Italian-American communities, who saw Columbus as a symbol of their heritage.
In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared Columbus Day a national holiday, to be celebrated on the second Monday in October. The holiday was meant to honor Columbus’ role in “discovering” America, although this narrative has been widely disputed by historians and indigenous communities.
States That Still Celebrate Columbus Day
The eight states that still officially observe Columbus Day are:
- Alabama: Alabama celebrates Columbus Day on the second Monday in October, with state offices and courts closed.
- Arkansas: Arkansas observes Columbus Day, although it is not a paid state holiday.
- Florida: Florida celebrates Columbus Day, with many state offices and courts closed.
- Idaho: Idaho observes Columbus Day, although it is not a mandatory state holiday.
- Kentucky: Kentucky celebrates Columbus Day, with some state offices and courts closed.
- Mississippi: Mississippi observes Columbus Day, with state offices and courts closed.
- Oklahoma: Oklahoma celebrates Columbus Day, although it is not a paid state holiday for all state employees.
- South Carolina: South Carolina observes Columbus Day, with some state offices and courts closed.
Reasons for Continuing to Celebrate Columbus Day
While the reasons for continuing to celebrate Columbus Day vary from state to state, some common arguments include:
- Cultural heritage: Many Italian-American communities continue to see Columbus as an important cultural figure, symbolizing their heritage and history.
- Historical significance: Some argue that Columbus’ voyage marked an important turning point in world history, opening up the Americas to European exploration and settlement.
- Tradition: For some states, celebrating Columbus Day is a matter of tradition and cultural continuity.
Arguments For and Against Celebrating Columbus Day
Arguments For Celebrating Columbus Day
- Celebrating Columbus Day honors Italian-American heritage and culture.
- The holiday recognizes Columbus' historical significance and role in shaping American history.
- Continuing to celebrate Columbus Day preserves traditional cultural practices.
Arguments Against Celebrating Columbus Day
- Columbus Day is seen as celebrating a figure associated with colonialism and the displacement of indigenous peoples.
- The holiday has been criticized for perpetuating a simplistic and inaccurate narrative about American history.
- Many cities and states have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day, which honors the histories and contributions of Native American communities.
Alternative Celebrations and Reforms
While some states continue to celebrate Columbus Day, others have opted for alternative celebrations or reforms. For example:
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Many cities and states have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which honors the histories and contributions of Native American communities.
- Alternative holidays: Some states have created alternative holidays or celebrations that recognize the complex and nuanced history of the Americas.
FAQ Section
Why do some states still celebrate Columbus Day?
+Some states continue to celebrate Columbus Day due to cultural heritage, historical significance, and tradition.
What is Indigenous Peoples' Day?
+Indigenous Peoples' Day is a holiday that honors the histories and contributions of Native American communities, often celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day.
How many states still celebrate Columbus Day?
+Eight states in the United States still officially observe Columbus Day.
What are some criticisms of Columbus Day?
+Criticisms of Columbus Day include its association with colonialism, the displacement of indigenous peoples, and the perpetuation of a simplistic narrative about American history.
The debate surrounding Columbus Day highlights the complexities and nuances of American history and cultural identity. While some states continue to celebrate the traditional holiday, others have opted for alternative celebrations or reforms. As the conversation around Columbus Day continues to evolve, it’s clear that the holiday’s future remains uncertain.
