• Trump Brings Columbus into the spotlight as he vows to restore Columbus Day and defend Columbus’ legacy against Democratic criticism.
• Indigenous Peoples’ Day has gained support, with some states celebrating both holidays.
• Columbus Day was established in 1937 through efforts from Italian American groups

President Donald Trump vowed to bring Columbus Day back “from the ashes.” He made this statement in a strong post on Truth Social. Trump criticized Democrats for attempting to destroy Columbus’ legacy. He said they tried to damage his reputation and hurt the Italian American community. Trump promised to restore the holiday and give it more prominence. He called for Columbus to make “a major comeback.”

Blaming Democrats for Attacks on Columbus

Trump specifically blamed Democrats for their role in erasing Columbus’ legacy. He claimed they tore down his statues. In his words, they replaced them with “woke” ideas or left empty spaces instead. Trump expressed frustration over these actions. He felt they dishonored Columbus and all the Italian Americans who look up to him. According to Trump, this move was part of a larger effort to destroy the explorer’s reputation.

Plans to Fully Reinstate Columbus Day

Trump went on to announce that he would fully restore Columbus Day. He made it clear that the holiday would return under the same rules and dates it has had for decades. The holiday would be recognized across the nation just as it was before the controversy. Trump emphasized that Columbus would bring the day back in full force, with celebrations and recognition that had been in place for many years.

Rise of Indigenous Peoples’ Day

In recent decades, a movement emerged to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Progressive critics of Columbus argued that his arrival in the Americas led to widespread harm for Native American tribes. They believed honoring Columbus was offensive because it ignored the mistreatment indigenous people faced after European colonization. The push for Indigenous Peoples’ Day grew stronger as many people advocated for recognizing the history and rights of Native American communities instead of celebrating Columbus.

Columbus Day Still Celebrated by Many

Despite efforts to replace Columbus Day, the holiday remains a national event. The federal government still officially recognizes Columbus Day, and it is observed in many cities across the country. In places like New York City, the Columbus Day Parade is a major event. Trump brings the Columbus tradition alive, and federal workers also still get the day off. This shows that, while the debate continues, the holiday has not been fully erased from the national calendar.

Biden’s Recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day

In 2021, President Joe Biden made history by officially recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day for the first time. However, it’s important to note that this is not yet a federally recognized holiday. Instead, Biden acknowledged the day as part of a broader effort to honor Native American communities. Despite this new recognition, Biden also continued to acknowledge Columbus Day. This reflects the ongoing debate over how to balance both perspectives on the holiday.

Some States Celebrate Both Days

As the debate over Columbus Day versus Indigenous Peoples’ Day continues, many states have found a middle ground. Washington, DC, and more than a dozen states have officially adopted Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Many of these states also continue to celebrate Columbus Day. Trump brings attention to both holidays, and this dual celebration shows how the country is grappling with honoring both the history of Columbus and the legacy of Native American communities.

Columbus’ Role in Italian American Culture

For many Italian Americans, Christopher Columbus is an important cultural symbol. Columbus’ Italian heritage makes him a figure of pride for this community. His role in history connects Italian Americans to the broader narrative of exploration and discovery. The Italian American Civil Rights League praised Trump’s comments about Columbus Day. They saw his promise as a victory for Italian Americans who view Columbus as a hero. Trump brings a focus to Columbus’ role, and the group expressed their support by saying, “Promises kept! A true PAISAN!”

The History of Columbus Day

Columbus Day was made a federal holiday in 1937, largely due to the efforts of Italian American groups. Organizations like the Knights of Columbus worked hard to ensure that Columbus would be honored as a national figure. Their successful lobbying efforts led to the recognition of Columbus Day, cementing his place in American history. For many Italian Americans, Trump brings Columbus to the forefront, keeping it a proud tradition that celebrates their cultural roots.