Confusion remains about Columbus Day and Indigenous People's Day

October 14 is Indigenous People's DayPhoto byFlickr screenshot

Confusion remains with Columbus Day observance

The Temptations had a hit song called Ball of Confusion, which is what Columbus Day has become. Many generations of Virginains were taught that "Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492" and that he had discovered America. The explorer was celebrated on October 12 for decades, but this has changed.

Virginia observes Indigenous People's Day

Younger generations have been told that Christopher Columbus did not discover the New World, but he brought disease to America. In Virginia, the second Monday in October is now known as Indigenous People Day to celebrate the Native Americans who were here before the White man.

Some Virginians still observe Columbus DayPhoto byFlickr screenshot

Indigenous People's Day will be a Federal Holiday on Monday, October 14, 2024. Some older adults still call the date Columbus Day because that's what they have known all their lives.