Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the second Monday of October, is observed every year on the same day as Columbus Day, which was first recognized as a national holiday in 1934 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Indigenous People’s Day was first recognized by President Biden in 2021.
This year, the holiday falls on Oct. 14 and is a observed alongside Columbus Day in some states.
The state of Texas recognizes Indigenous People’s Day, but it is not an official holiday for state employees. That means state offices remain open and employees do not receive the day off.
- What is Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Is a holiday dedicated to recognizing and honoring Native American communities while acknowledging their histories and cultures, according to the proclamation of Indigenous People’s Day.
The observance of Indigenous People’s Day originated at a United Nations-sponsored international conference on discrimination in 1977.
Over 200 cities have recognized the commemorative day, according to a website dedicated to collecting data by responding to requests from Indigenous organizations.
These groups argue that Columbus’s actions led to genocide and colonization of communities that had lived in the Americas for centuries.
- Where is Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrated?
Approximate 216 cities, 83 schools and 20 counties have renamed Columbus Day and adopted Indigenous Peoples’ Day, according to a website dedicated to collect data on recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
The website states that 29 states and Washington D.C. do not observe Columbus Day.
It hasn’t been established as a federal holiday yet, although members of Congress have put forth proposals to designate it as such.
- Are there closures for the day?
The United States Postal Service and post offices will not be open in observance of Columbus Day, and the majority of banks will also be closed.
Most government offices and libraries will also remain closed in observance of Columbus Day, however, retailers such as Walmart, Target and most grocery stores will operate as usual.
- Native Americans in North Texas
Many Native Americans in the region feel overlooked by politicians and have been advocating for their issues to be included in public discussions.
Activists emphasize the need for policies that address the unique challenges faced by indigenous communities, such as economic disparities, health care access and preservation of culture and land.
They are calling on candidates to engage with them directly and prioritize their perspectives and needs in their platforms.
