Blog

« Back

Whether it is Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day, it is a Great Time to Learn, Reflect and Relax

October 10th, 2023 by Kenneth Abrahams

Yesterday was Indigenous Peoples Day or Columbus Day depending on how you choose to label it. Regardless of what you call it, the day has become a hot button issue for some, a non-issue for others, and for many simply a Monday off in October. Let’s face it, this has never been a major holiday. Companies for years have considered Columbus Day (as it was known for many years) a floating holiday like President’s Day. Many businesses and colleges stay open, operating with a business-as-usual mentality. In some organizations, if you chose to work or had to work, later in the year you could take a day off of your choosing. Other institutions gave you either Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples Day or Presidents Day but not both.

In recent years, there has been a growing debate over the celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day versus Columbus Day in the United States. This debate stems from the troubled history of Christopher Columbus, his treatment of the native people he encountered, and the conditions his crew endured during their voyages. Many argue that it is time to shift our focus and celebrate the Native Americans who inhabited the continent for centuries before Columbus arrived.

To understand the controversy surrounding Columbus Day, it's essential to delve into the life and actions of Christopher Columbus. In 1492, Columbus embarked on a voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in search of a western route to Asia. Instead, he stumbled upon the islands of the Caribbean, which he mistakenly believed to be part of the East Indies. Columbus's arrival marked the beginning of European exploration and colonization in the Americas.

However, Columbus's interactions with the Indigenous peoples he encountered were far from admirable. Accounts from his journals and those of his contemporaries reveal a troubling history of exploitation, violence, and enslavement. Columbus and his crew subjected the Indigenous populations to forced labor, violence, and diseases to which they had no immunity. The consequences of these actions were devastating, leading to the decimation of entire communities.

Columbus's treatment of his own crew was also deeply problematic. During their arduous voyages, the crew faced harsh conditions, including cramped quarters, lack of food and fresh water, and the constant threat of scurvy and other diseases. Columbus was known for his autocratic leadership, often resorting to harsh punishments to maintain control. This harsh treatment led to mutinies and discontent among his crew members.

As we reflect on this history, the question arises: Why should we continue to celebrate Columbus Day? Many argue that it is time to shift our focus to Indigenous Peoples Day, a day dedicated to honoring and celebrating the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Native American communities that have existed on this continent for thousands of years before Columbus's arrival.

Indigenous Peoples Day, which is observed on the second Monday of October in various parts of the United States, offers an alternative perspective. It recognizes the resilience and enduring heritage of Native American tribes and nations. Instead of glorifying Columbus, who represents a dark chapter in history, this day celebrates the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous cultures that continue to thrive across the country.

The push for Indigenous Peoples Day also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the true history of the Americas. It encourages us to confront uncomfortable truths about colonization and its devastating consequences for Indigenous populations. By doing so, we can begin the process of reconciliation and healing.

The debate between Indigenous Peoples Day and Columbus Day highlights the need to reassess our historical narratives and reconsider who we choose to celebrate. Christopher Columbus's actions and treatment of both Indigenous peoples and his own crew reveal a dark side of history that cannot be ignored. Shifting our focus to Indigenous Peoples Day allows us to honor the cultures of Native American communities while acknowledging the troubled history of Columbus. It is a step toward a more honest and inclusive commemoration of America's past, one that recognizes the contributions of those who were here long before Columbus's arrival.

For years, history books and elementary education have taught our children, me included that in 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue. We celebrated the “fact” that he was the first European to set foot in North or South America despite strong historical evidence that was not correct. Yet we have named streets and cities after him. Erected statues in his honor and eventually gave him his own holiday. Some will tell you that he discovered the United States of America or the land that would become the USA, even though he never set foot on the shores here. It is hard to accept some of this when, for years, you have operated under a set of facts and now find them to be incorrect. Perhaps that explains some peoples’ resistance to the change.

Regardless of what you call the day, there is a lot of value to it. Often, we simply want to ignore or sweep our history under the rug. This provides us with a wonderful opportunity to have open, honest discussions about who and what Columbus was and what he did. While, at the same time, discussing the contributions and troubling history of our relationship with the Native Americans that were here long before the Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria set sail. Whether he discovered America or not, he did open trade routes to this part of the world from Europe. He brought new foods back to the old world that are still part of the European diet today. Few realize that he almost ended up at the end of a hangman’s rope for the crimes he committed. An interesting character to say the last.

Perhaps I am in the minority, but regardless of what you call this day, it is not a bad thing. For some, it is a nice break in the school year and in the fall. Several times on the second Monday in October we would go sailing with a friend in Boston Harbor. It was often a bit chilly but beautiful day none the less. One person I know took his camera and explored the mountains and streams of New Hampshire, taking breathtaking photos of the scenery and the foliage. It is a great time to reflect, relax, and enjoy the beaty of Mother Nature’s canvas or a day simply to read, relax and enjoy.  However you choose to spend it, perhaps take a few minutes to think and reflect, that is never a bad thing.

About the Author

Ken Abrahams has always enjoyed history and politics. The subject of revising history is one that has always fascinated him. Never a big fan of hiding what we have done in the past, he is always open to new ideas and new points of view. For the record, he is in favor of dropping the Columbus Day name altogether.

To find out more about the company go to our website www.funent.com you can also go to this link to sign up for our newsletter which comes out about 6 times a year    https://funent.com/subscribe-to-the-funny-pages/.  Our newsletter will tell you more about the company and the products and services we offer as well as some games, things to do, and the occasional cooking tip.