Across the country, some cities are giving up Columbus Day and replacing the designation with ‘Indigenous Peoples’ Day.” The state of Illinois has tried to find a middle ground.
It’s not a new concept - Evanston, Illinois began recognizing the day in lieu of its previous designation last year. Other cities have celebrated it starting back in 1992. At least four states have done away with Columbus Day entirely.
The concept was brought about decades ago by organizations that argue it is wrong to glorify European colonialism that included the genocide of native people in America. A law signed earlier this year by the Governor has caught on to the trend. It designates the last Monday of each September as “Indigenous Peoples Day” and says it’s a way to promote understanding about Native Americans in the state. Illinois still recognizes the second Monday in October as Columbus Day with the closure of government offices.
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