Trump’s Columbus Day Proclamation Aims to Reclaim Explorer’s Legacy
President Trump has issued a proclamation officially marking Columbus Day on Monday. His initiative seeks to “reclaim” the legacy of Christopher Columbus, highlighting his faith, courage, perseverance, and virtue.
Trump’s Aim to Reclaim Columbus’ Legacy
This declaration follows Trump’s previous pledge to restore Columbus Day to its traditional observance, after years of dwindling recognition as many have shifted to celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day.
Columbus Day vs. Indigenous Peoples Day
Many critics, including Kerri Malloy, a professor of Native American and Indigenous Studies at San José State University, have challenged Columbus’ legacy. They argue his arrival led to widespread genocide of Indigenous people, disease, and enforced conversion to Christianity.
President Trump’s proclamation does not mention Indigenous Peoples Day. Instead, it blames “left-wing arsonists” for attempting to tarnish Columbus’ name.
Current Recognition Across the U.S.
- Columbus Day is one of 12 federally recognized holidays as of 2025.
- According to Pew Research Center data, 30 states and three U.S. territories observe Columbus Day in some capacity.
- 17 states and Washington D.C. commemorate Indigenous Peoples Day.
Historical Context
Christopher Columbus, born in Italy in 1451, embarked on his famous journey in 1492, aiming for Asia but landing in the Bahamas. Though he never reached present-day U.S., he made further voyages to South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Columbus Day was first commemorated by President Benjamin Harrison in 1892, as a gesture towards Italian-Americans following anti-Italian violence in New Orleans. President Franklin Roosevelt later established it as a federal holiday in 1934.
Political Reactions
After signing the proclamation, Trump expressed affection for Italians, stating, “We’re back, Italians. We love the Italians.” New York Republican Representative Elise Stefanik celebrated this, stating that New Yorkers love Columbus Day. Fellow New York Republican Representative Mike Lawler, an Italian American, echoed this sentiment, showing support for the day and its significance to Italian-American history.
Conversely, others critique the proclamation for presenting a one-sided narrative of Columbus’ expeditions. Malloy emphasizes that the story also involves commerce and resource exploitation, which should be acknowledged.
A Broader Perspective
Trump encourages Americans to honor Columbus by displaying the U.S. flag on public buildings. However, the proclamation stirred mixed reactions across the nation. Matthew Fletcher from Michigan State University’s Indigenous Law and Policy Center views it as targeted at minority communities, who may not favor Trump’s policies.
In the broader context, Indigenous Peoples Day continues to be observed, reflecting diverse local, tribal, and state festivities that persist alongside Columbus Day celebrations.
