Trump Pledges Columbus Day Focus Amid Ongoing Debate

Former President Donald Trump has vowed to 'bring Columbus Day back from the ashes,' criticizing Democrats and President Biden for efforts to promote Indigenous Peoples Day alongside Columbus Day. Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, although President Biden was the first to formally recognize Indigenous Peoples Day at the national level. Over a dozen states and more than 200 cities now observe Indigenous Peoples Day instead of or in addition to Columbus Day. Trump’s pledge has raised concerns among Indigenous communities, who fear their contributions may be marginalized. However, only Congress has the authority to change or abolish federal holidays. The debate underscores ongoing cultural clashes regarding historical memory and the recognition of both Indigenous and Italian American heritage.