Harrison Closed for Columbus Day on Mon. October 14, 2024

The Town of Harrison will be closed on Monday, October 14, 2024, in observance of Columbus Day, a federal holiday that has been celebrated in the United States for more than a century. As the nation marks the day, many also recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which celebrates the history and culture of Native American communities.

The Origins and Significance of Columbus Day

Columbus Day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. The holiday was first celebrated in 1892, marking the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s landing, but it wasn’t until 1937 that it became a federal holiday. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, influenced by the lobbying efforts of Italian-American communities, made the holiday official. Since then, it has been observed on the second Monday of October.

For Italian Americans, Columbus Day holds particular significance. Columbus, an explorer born in Italy, symbolizes the contributions of Italian immigrants to American society. The holiday became a point of cultural pride, especially in the early 20th century when Italian immigrants faced widespread discrimination. Celebrating Columbus Day became a way for Italian-Americans to honor their heritage and integrate into American culture.

The Rise of Indigenous Peoples’ Day

In recent years, Columbus Day has faced criticism for its association with colonialism and the negative impact of European settlement on Indigenous populations. Columbus discovered the island of Dominica which now is home to the nations of the Dominican Republic and Haiti. As a result, Indigenous Peoples’ Day emerged as an alternative celebration. This day honors the history, culture, and contributions of Native Americans while acknowledging the suffering they endured due to European colonization.

The idea of Indigenous Peoples’ Day was first proposed in 1977 at a United Nations-sponsored conference on discrimination against Indigenous populations in the Americas. South Dakota was the first state to officially recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 1989, with Berkeley, California, becoming the first city to adopt the holiday that same year. Since then, several states and municipalities across the U.S., have opted to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day in place of, or alongside, Columbus Day.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day serves as a reminder of the resilience and contributions of Native communities, while also fostering education and awareness about their history. For many, this day is an opportunity to reflect on the complexities of American history and the need to honor the diverse cultures that have shaped the nation.

A Time for Reflection and Celebration

Whether residents observe Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, or both, October 14 offers a chance to reflect on the diverse and complex history of the United States. In Harrison, public offices, including the Town Hall, will remain closed on Monday.

As the nation continues to evolve, the way we observe these holidays may change, but their significance remains. They provide opportunities for communities to come together, celebrate diversity, and acknowledge the history and contributions of all who call America home.

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