As many have different cultural differences where they believe it’s right to celebrate this day, others believe it’s unsafe and unnecessary to have such a day created. There are many pros and cons that this day has created for others, leaving them with joy or sadness. For background information, Columbus Day was created in 1792, and it took place in New York City. In the late 1800s, it became a symbol for Italian American immigrants, where they organized parades and events in his honor.  In 1892, President Benjamin Harrison marked the 400th anniversary of his voyage, which people felt was pushed by the Italian American committees.  

This day was created for Christopher Columbus, who was an Italian explorer who sailed under the Spanish flag. He landed in the Bahamas on October 12, 1492, where he believed he had found a new route to Asia. His voyage marked the beginning of European colonization of the Americas. Along the way, Italian immigrants faced heavy discrimination. This day makes Italian American immigrants feel accepted by the community.  

Many presidents moved around the day to be a part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. Where many people celebrate this day to remember such day when there was slavery and genocide. To honor such people as Christopher Columbus. 

 This day led to the enslavement, exploitation, and deaths of indigenous people. Through his journals, it showed violence, forced labor, and brutality towards native people. It caused colonialism and genocide, which initiated a wave of European colonization that caused displacement, death, and destruction for millions of people. For many people, Columbus Day reminds them of colonial violence and genocide, and not discovery. Many different cultures see this day as disrespectful to the native Americans, where even many communities choose to replace Columbus Day with indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor them.  

“I don’t think we should celebrate Columbus Day because Christopher Columbus killed lots of people; he doesn’t deserve to be celebrated.”-Lilly Aarons (Sophomore)

However, this historical turning point set the stage for globalization, cultural exchange, trade, etc. For some people, Columbus symbolizes the spirit of exploration, risk-taking, and pushing oneself beyond the known. Also served as a pride point for Italian Americans. 

Although this day has positive effects and negative effects, it has coexisted with increased education and awareness about the day and what happened. This day can give people a reflection and acknowledge both the achievements that were made and the consequences. People use this day as an opportunity for dialogue, education, and understanding of this complex story in history. 

“I don’t think this day should be celebrated knowing he killed many people.”-Sanyaa Greene (sophomore)

There are many valid reasons why many people choose to celebrate, while many people choose not to celebrate. And it gives Italian Americans hope and a symbol that shaped the modern world, now for immigrants’ pride, and reflects enduring values like courage and ambition.