The Reasons Against Celebrating Columbus Day
Christopher Columbus is a historical figure celebrated for 'discovering' America in 1492. The national holiday, Columbus Day, commemorates his voyage and has been celebrated in the United States since the early 20th century. However, there's a growing consensus against this celebration, as many view it as an erasure of the violence and oppression indigenous peoples faced as a direct result of Columbus's actions. This essay will delve into the reasons why Columbus Day should not be celebrated and why it's crucial to remember the full history, including its darker sides.
While Columbus's navigational skills and daring cannot be denied, his intentions upon reaching the new world were far from noble. Historical accounts reveal that he sought wealth, fame, and, most importantly, gold. He enslaved and brutalized the natives he encountered, forcing them into labor and punishing those who didn't comply. In his own writings, Columbus made it clear that the indigenous peoples were merely obstacles to his ambitions.
To say Columbus 'discovered' America is a Eurocentric viewpoint that disregards the millennia-old civilizations that thrived in the Americas long before Columbus set sail. Indigenous peoples had rich cultures, advanced societies, and deep spiritual traditions. Labeling Columbus as the 'discoverer' of America marginalizes these indigenous histories and gives undue credit to a European for finding land that was already inhabited.
Columbus's arrival brought unprecedented levels of violence and disease to the indigenous populations. Smallpox, measles, and other European diseases decimated native populations, who had no immunity. This biological catastrophe, coupled with forced labor and violence, resulted in the deaths of millions. Celebrating Columbus Day is, in essence, celebrating the beginning of this devastating chapter in indigenous history.
In the present day, indigenous communities still face repercussions from the colonization that began with Columbus. They grapple with issues like land rights, cultural preservation, and systemic racism. To these communities, Columbus Day is a painful reminder of their ancestors' suffering. By continuing to celebrate Columbus Day, society is overlooking the plight and sentiments of these communities.
Recognizing the problematic nature of Columbus Day doesn't mean erasing history. Instead, many advocate for replacing it with 'Indigenous Peoples' Day' to honor the rich heritage and contributions of native communities. Such a switch would be a step towards healing and understanding, acknowledging the full scope of American history rather than a sanitized version.
Conclusion
Columbus Day, while traditional, perpetuates a narrative that overlooks the atrocities committed against indigenous peoples and celebrates a man whose actions led to the suffering of millions. In the spirit of truth, reconciliation, and respect, it's essential to reconsider the celebration of Columbus Day. By transitioning to a more inclusive and truthful commemoration, like Indigenous Peoples' Day, society can pay respect to those whose voices have been marginalized for centuries and ensure that history is remembered in its entirety, not just the parts that are convenient or celebratory.
