by Julliette Arroyo // Staff Writer
Since 1937, Columbus Day has been marked on our calendars as a national holiday, in honor of Christopher Columbus and his arrival into the “New World.” For 180 years, every second Monday of October, we have celebrated Columbus and his impact on American history. However, what exactly is there to celebrate? Why has there been a day assigned to a man who enslaved and murdered thousands of innocents for no particular reason? Who are we to commemorate this genocidal maniac of a man?
We are not to praise his foolish acts with his own holiday, and we will do so no longer. Starting in 2019, LA [along with nearly 55 other cities] has taken action to change Columbus Day to Indigenous People’s Day.
Being one of the many cities to make this bold decision, you would think that LA would be appreciated for its attempt in trying to respect all cultures. Yet, those who are being affected have a different perspective on this entire situation.
AMA senior Angel Monjet, who is part Native American, expressed her view, with the notion that indigenous people have been deserving of this respect for too long.
“I feel that these cities are genuine in their decision in trying to make amends with diverse cultures… and although it is a great way to start, this decision should have been made generations ago,” stated Angel.
Because the idea that Columbus is worthy of his own holiday can be questionable, all sides of the issue are to be considered. Yes, Columbus enabled the transaction of plants, animals, ideas, and culture due to his voyages. But in all seriousness, what does this say about our nation if we honor a man who brought much pain and agony to thousands of innocent people?
AEE English teacher Mr. Lal said, “We need to grow up as a nation and get over old narratives that once unified people… We now live in a new world. To celebrate Columbus is to take away the legacy of those who were here originally. The credit goes to the indigenous people.”
With that being said, the replacement of Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day is long overdue, but it’s a great stepping stone to commemorate the indigenous, aboriginal and native people. It is our hope as a nation and society that we continue to grow and respect all diversity in the world.
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