Holidays: Columbus Day: Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
The proposed changes would have implications on various sections of the California Civil Code and the Government Code, specifically those that reference holidays. For public and private sectors alike, this rebranding would mean updating calendars, official documents, and communications to reflect the new holiday name. Furthermore, statewide observances would need to shift to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, fostering broader public awareness and appreciation for Indigenous cultures.
Senate Bill No. 1490, introduced by Senator Stern, aims to amend California's holidays by changing the designation of the second Monday in October from Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples Day. This bill seeks to recognize and honor the culture, history, and contributions of Native Americans within the state. By altering the name of this holiday, California is acknowledging the impact of colonization and the historical injustices faced by Indigenous populations.
While supporters of the bill argue that it is a vital step toward acknowledging Indigenous people's rights and contributions, opponents may express concern that renaming traditional holidays could erase historical narratives or further divide public opinion on cultural recognition. The debate often revolves around the impacts of such changes on cultural heritage and collective memory, raising questions about how societies choose to memorialize events and people from the past.