One Day, Different Meanings The Story It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. *Looks at cal.* And also Columbus Day? Yes. And here’s why. First recognized as a national holiday in 1934, Columbus Day honors Italian explorer Christopher Columbus’ so-called ‘discovery’ of the Americas. But for many Native Americans, it’s a slap in the face. That’s because Columbus’ arrival kicked off a wave of colonization — including centuries of violence, displacement, and forced assimilation. So, in recent decades, there’s been a push to change the second Monday of October to Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Tell me. The idea has been picking up steam. In 1990, South Dakota became the first state to make the switch. Since then, more than a dozen other states and over 100 cities have followed suit. Last year, President Biden became the first president to formally recognize the day — which honors the strength and contributions of Native communities and acknowledges the challenges that Indigenous people continue to face. But this shift isn’t without pushback: Some Italian Americans have defended Columbus Day as a time to celebrate their heritage, while others have proposed celebrating on another day. And what do Native Americans say? While some believe Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a step in the right direction (reminder, it’s not a federal holiday), others think that a symbolic gesture is not enough. Because the marginalization of Native Americans is not confined to the past. Today, an estimated 10% reportedly don’t have access to safe drinking water or basic sanitation. And the effects of climate change (think: rising sea levels, extreme heat) are making their already-diminished amount of land (think: because of forced relocation) uninhabitable. Plus, more than 4 in 5 American Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced violence in their lifetime — and many have raised the alarm about the epidemic of murdered and missing women and girls. Indigenous communities also face significant health disparities (see: higher rates of diabetes, psychological distress) when compared to other US groups, as well as a shorter life expectancy. theSkimm While there have been some strides forward, a single holiday can’t right historical wrongs. Still, lots of people will spend today celebrating and reflecting on Indigenous heritage in the US — a good reminder that more awareness and action is needed all year long. Read, Watch, Listen Looking for recs to check out on Indigenous Peoples’ Day? Dive into these books, pods, and shows by Indigenous creators. “Reservation Dogs”...a comedy series by an all-Indigenous cast, crew, and writer’s room about four Oklahoma teens growing up on the rez. “Poet Warrior” by Joy Harjo…this memoir from the nation’s first Native American poet laureate explores heartache, loss, and much more — through a combination of poetry, prose, and song. “Night of the Living Rez” by Morgan Talty…a buzzy collection of short stories about life on the Penobscot Indian Nation reservation. “This Land”…an award-winning podcast, hosted by Cherokee writer Rebecca Nagle, that investigates land rights, adoption of Native children, and other timely issues. “Whereas” by Layli Long Soldier…a poetry collection that responds to the gov’s often overlooked “Apology to Native Peoples.” “The Night Watchman” by Louise Erdrich…based on a true story, this book won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. Need we say more? “Dark Winds”...based on popular mystery novels, this series follows two tribal police officers investigating a series of crimes on the Navajo Nation. Spoiler: It’s binge-worthy. “The Removed” by Brandon Hobson…a powerful novel that tells the story of a fractured family as they reckon with the tragic death of their son. “The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen” by Sean Sherman with Beth Dooley…Indigenous cuisine is having a moment — thanks in part to Sherman. And his James Beard Award-winning restaurant, Owamni. “The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee” by David Treuer…explores Native American history from 1890 to the present. And highlights Native American resilience despite forced relocation and more.