Maybe you and your kids have heard about some folks opting to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day — but do you know why?
Most of us learn about Christopher Columbus in school, and some of us even enjoy a day off from work or school on Columbus Day. But when you think about the real story behind it, you have to wonder…is he really worthy of having a federal holiday named after him?
The narrative that Columbus “discovered America” really falls apart when you acknowledge the millions of Indigenous people who were already here when he arrived. And with the arrival of Columbus and other European settlers came the exploitation and genocide of the people who called this land home. Doesn’t sound like much to celebrate, right?
So many people choose instead to spend this day celebrating the history, contributions, and continuing legacy of Indigenous people in America.
Here’s a script you can use to talk about it with your kids.
What to say to kids about Columbus Day vs. Indigenous Peoples’ Day
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Share the facts: “That’s great that you get the day off, honey! But did you know there were already people here when Columbus showed up? That’s right, millions of Indigenous people, or Native Americans, already lived here when Columbus got here in 1492.”
Briefly explain colonization: “Yes, and the colonizers — people like Columbus who came from a different country to take over — mostly made things much worse for the Indigenous people, bringing things like wars and disease and taking control of their land away.”
Ask what they think: “That’s why so many people want to change the name of Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Rather than celebrate Columbus, they want to honor Native Americans and all Indigenous peoples everywhere. What do you think the holiday should be called?”
And when you’re ready to have a more in-depth conversation about Native American history with kids, see this script.
