History Commons^™

Editorial: Why Do We Still Need To Defend Indigenous Peoples Day?, Liz Theriault

Social Justice: Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Indigenous Peoples Day is approaching, yet we are still discussing the man who committed mass genocide who is incorrectly credited for discovering America. There were already millions of people living in North America when the Europeans crossed the ocean in 1492, and common logic could argue that replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a way to recognize history. However, since Gov. Janet Mills signed a bill into law on April 26 replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day. With the holiday rapidly approaching controversy surrounding it has been ignited once more.