Even after the White House ignored Indigenous Peoples’ Day and only issued a Columbus Day proclamation, “it is still a good day to be Indigenous.” Being Indigenous isn’t defined by politics or presidential words — “our strength comes from something much older, deeper, and more enduring. We are still here.”

The administration’s silence “was loud,” especially after removing mentions of Native contributions and refusing to rescind Medals of Honor from soldiers responsible for the 1890 Wounded Knee massacre. But Native people “have always had to fight to be seen” and “never needed permission to celebrate ourselves.”

Criticizing Columbus isn’t being anti-Italian. His legacy is “one of conquest, enslavement and genocide.” Many Italians now agree their heritage shouldn’t be tied to him. “Being against Columbus statues and Columbus Day is not an attack on Italian identity… It’s about aligning public honor with shared values — truth, justice, and respect.”

Rejecting Columbus isn’t anti-American either. “It’s deeply American to confront the full truth of our history.” Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors the resilience of Native nations and their role as “the original stewards of this land.”

“Indigenous Peoples’ Day is not just a counterpoint to Columbus Day—it’s a declaration… we are who we have always been.”