Trump Aims to Reinstate Columbus Day Amid Controversy

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump announced Sunday that he plans to reinstate Columbus Day, claiming it was tarnished by Democratic actions against Christopher Columbus and his legacy. During a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “The Democrats did everything possible to destroy Christopher Columbus, his reputation, and all of the Italians that love him so much.”

In his message, Trump criticized the removal of Columbus statues and the rise of what he referred to as ‘WOKE’ culture. “Well, you’ll be happy to know, Christopher is going to make a major comeback. I am hereby reinstating Columbus Day under the same rules, dates, and locations as it has had for all of the many decades before!”

Despite Trump’s remarks, Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, observed on the second Monday in October. However, in recent years, several states and cities have recognized Indigenous Peoples Day on the same date as a replacement. According to Axios, at least four states and various localities have adopted this alternative holiday.

The discussion around Columbus Day gained traction in 2020, fueled by protests advocating for racial equity. Critics of Columbus point out that he was responsible for violence against Indigenous peoples. Indigenous rights activist Mahtowin Munro stated, “Celebrating Columbus is intended to erase us and ultimately is celebrating our genocide.”

President Joe Biden, in his administration, has acknowledged Indigenous peoples’ contributions and resilience, marking a shift in the narrative surrounding the holiday. In 2021, he issued a proclamation that recognized Indigenous sovereignty.

In the last Congress, there was an attempt by 67 Democratic representatives and senators to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day, though the bill did not reach a vote.

Columbus Day was first declared a federal holiday by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1934, gaining official status in 1937, largely due to the advocacy of the Knights of Columbus. Columbus’ voyages have made him a controversial figure, symbolizing the European colonization of the Americas.

As Trump seeks to navigate recent political challenges, reinstating a federal holiday that was never abolished may serve as an effort to consolidate support among his base.