What's happened
St. John's University in New York has ceased to recognize Columbus Day, opting instead for a fall mini-break. This decision aligns with growing calls to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day, reflecting a shift in how the holiday is perceived amid concerns over its historical implications.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent reports that St. John's University has decided to stop recognizing Columbus Day, citing concerns raised by Indigenous activists about the holiday's historical implications. Brian Browne, a representative for the university, explained that the decision was made to accommodate the academic calendar. Meanwhile, Axios highlights that the debate over the holiday's name continues, with many states recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day instead. The contrasting views are evident, as some Italian American alumni have criticized the university's decision as 'insane' and 'outrageous,' while advocates argue for the importance of recognizing Indigenous history.
How we got here
Columbus Day, established as a federal holiday in 1937, has faced increasing scrutiny due to its association with the violent history of colonization. Indigenous activists have long advocated for a shift towards recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day.
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