why was columbus day changed

Columbus Day was changed or replaced in many places due to the controversy surrounding Christopher Columbus's role in colonization and the subsequent negative impact on Indigenous populations. The holiday began as a celebration of Italian immigrants and Columbus as an explorer, but over time, Native American groups and activists highlighted the violent colonization, enslavement, and displacement of Indigenous peoples that Columbus's arrival symbolized. This led to efforts to replace or supplement Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day, which honors the history, culture, and contributions of Native Americans rather than celebrating Columbus. The shift started gaining traction in the late 20th century, with cities like Berkeley, California, adopting Indigenous Peoples' Day in 1992 as a protest. Several states and local governments now observe Indigenous Peoples' Day either instead of or alongside Columbus Day. This change aims to recognize the historical trauma caused by European colonization and to give a voice to Indigenous perspectives. The movement reached the federal level in 2021 when President Joe Biden formally acknowledged Indigenous Peoples' Day alongside Columbus Day, although there have been reversals, such as President Donald Trump's proclamation reinstating Columbus Day only in 2024. The change reflects a growing awareness and acknowledgment of Indigenous people's experiences and the critique of Columbus as a symbol of colonial oppression rather than discovery.