Columbus Day Why Do We Celebrate It?

Columbus Day

Why Do We Celebrate It?

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

"In fourteen hundred ninety-two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue."

Most of us have heard that catchy rhyme at some point in school. But beyond the sing-song memory, Columbus Day is a holiday that carries centuries of history, debate, and discovery. So, what exactly did we celebrate yesterday? And why does it matter today? Let’s set sail through time and find out.

Columbus Day honors the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. Sponsored by Spain, Columbus set out on a bold mission to find a new route to Asia by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean. Instead of Asia, he stumbled upon islands in the Caribbean — places Europeans had never seen before.

While Columbus didn’t actually “discover” America in the way we often hear — Native peoples had been living here for thousands of years — his voyage marked the beginning of sustained contact between Europe and the Americas, a turning point that changed world history.

That’s the big idea behind Columbus Day: a celebration of exploration, courage, and the start of a new global era.

Columbus Day became an official U.S. federal holiday in 1937, thanks in large part to the efforts of Italian-American communities. Columbus, who was Italian, became a symbol of pride for immigrants who were often discriminated against in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

By celebrating Columbus, Italian Americans found a hero who represented their heritage, bravery, and determination. The holiday was a way to honor their cultural identity and contributions to American life.

Traditionally, Columbus Day has been marked with parades, school plays, patriotic displays, and — of course — lots of Italian food. Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago host massive parades that celebrate both Columbus and Italian-American pride.

For many, it’s not just about a historic voyage. It’s a time to celebrate the spirit of adventure, innovation, and cultural roots that help define the American experience.

But like many holidays, Columbus Day isn’t without controversy.

As more people have learned about the impact of European colonization on Native American communities — including violence, slavery, and disease — Columbus has come under serious scrutiny. Some view him not as a hero, but as a symbol of conquest and oppression.

Because of this, many cities and states now observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of, or alongside, Columbus Day. This day honors the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Native American peoples — and acknowledges the painful past that began with European arrival.

It’s a shift that invites deeper reflection and a broader view of history, one that includes all voices. So… Why Do We Still Celebrate Columbus Day?

Whether you celebrate Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, or both, the day itself invites important conversations.

Columbus Day reminds us of the human desire to explore, the courage to venture into the unknown, and the moments that change the course of history. At the same time, it also challenges us to look critically at our past, understand its complexity, and learn from it.

The beauty of living in a diverse country is that we can hold multiple truths at once — we can honor cultural pride while also recognizing historical harm. It’s not about erasing history; it’s about adding layers to our understanding of it.

Love him or loathe him, Christopher Columbus made waves that are still felt today — literally and figuratively. His journey wasn’t just across the sea; it was into a whole new chapter of human history.

So, on Columbus Day, take a moment to appreciate the bold spirit of exploration. Think about the people — from European explorers to Indigenous leaders — who shaped this land. And consider how we, too, can shape a future that honors truth, celebrates diversity, and moves forward with understanding.

Because history isn’t just about the past. It’s a compass for where we’re going next.