Indigenous Peoples' Day & Columbus Day

​Indigenous Peoples' Day is a day that is meant to celebrate and recognize the longstanding culture and traditions that existed in America before European settlements. The native culture and traditions in America have modernized, but deserve recognition!

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​Well, no... It's complicated...

The two holidays, Indigenous Peoples' Day and Columbus Day are the same day, but carry different meanings. Columbus Day was a way to celebrate the founding of America by Christopher Columbus in 1492. In recent years, to honor the indigenous people of North America, it has become a day to honor those that were here before Europeans arrived.

Celebrates the voyage that discovered America in 1492, and is why most Americans today can call America home.

Columbus Day

Celebrates the history, cultures, and contributions of past and current indigenous people - often referred to as Native Americans or Indians.

Indigenous Peoples' Day

​How YOU Celebrate is up to YOU

Choosing to celebrate Columbus Day doesn't mean you can't also celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day!

Both have their place, but let's see how you can celebrate both!
You should always appreciate other perspectives and decisions!

The two days can be very different in meaning, but the important thing is respect others!

​How to Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day

Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day isn't so much about doing things, so much as it as respecting and appreciating our indigenous peoples.

• Celebrating native art, music, dance, and food

• Cultural/Traditional ceremonies

• Storytelling and lessons on/by natives

• Supporting and advocating for those who lived here in America

Here we see a woman in traditional clothing performing for a crowd one of her peoples' ceremonial dances.

​How to Celebrate Columbus Day

Celebrating Columbus Day is a day to reflect and appreciate the "founding" of the Americas. People do so in many different ways here in North America:

• Learning about Columbus' voyage & discoveries

• Enjoying parades in Columbus' honor

• Celebrating heritage and exploration

Here is a Columbus Day parade. You can see a mix of American and Italian flags, because Columbus was Italian. You may also find things honoring the Spanish, as he sailed for the Spanish crown.

"In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue!"