Columbus Day is still celebrated because it honors Christopher Columbus' historic 1492 voyage, symbolizing exploration, innovation, and Italian- American heritage. Supporters see it as a tribute to human curiosity and courage, as well as a part of American cultural tradition since it has been a federal holiday since 1937. Additionally, the current U.S. administration under President Donald Trump strongly supports the holiday as a celebration of Western civilization and Italian-American contributions. However, there is significant controversy around Columbus Day because many view Columbus' arrival as the start of colonization, violence, and suffering for Indigenous peoples. Critics argue that celebrating Columbus glorifies oppression and disregards the painful legacy for Native Americans. This has led many states and cities to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day to honor Native cultures and histories instead. In summary, Columbus Day persists due to its historical role in American tradition, recognition of Italian-American heritage, and the narrative of exploration it represents, while there is an ongoing debate about its appropriateness given the consequences for Indigenous populations. The holiday continues to evolve amid these conflicting perspectives, with some states embracing Indigenous Peoples' Day as an alternative.
