It is still called Columbus Day in Massachusetts along with these 15 states

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Columbus Day is in honor of the day Christopher Columbus landed in the Bahamas in 1492, but some people question the holiday’s origins.

Many businesses and schools are closed for Monday’s holiday, which has taken on a new name by some states in recent years, to honor its true origins.

Due to Columbus’ history, there is an ongoing debate over whether or not to call the holiday Columbus Day or Indigenous People’s Day. Supporters of Indigenous People’s Day say it’s a way to face the reality of the genocide and land theft that happened to Native Americans after Columbus’ arrival.

Since 2014, at least 33 states in the U.S. have recognized and continue to recognize Indigenous People’s Day in some way. But federally and here in Massachusetts, it is still Columbus Day. Still, today is a good time to reflect on Indigenous history and honor the legacies of the indigenous tribes who once cared for the land we occupy today.

U.S. states that recognize Columbus Day

In Hawaii, the day is known as Discoverers’ Day, California and Delaware dropped the holiday entirely in 2009.

State Senator Jo Comerford has filed legislation to officially change the name of the holiday in Massachusetts. The bill was voted favorably by the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

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