Today is a holiday of sorts in Hawaii, plus of course, it is a national holiday (albeit not a holiday at Beat of Hawaii). Today is Discoverers’ Day in Hawaii, but not an official state holiday. It’s a way for Hawaii to distance itself from celebrating the colonization of Native Americans.
The second Monday in October shall be known as Discoverers’ Day, in recognition of the Polynesian discoverers of the Hawaiian Islands, provided that this day is not and shall not be construed to be a state holiday. — Hawaii State Legislature.
Columbus Day became a national holiday in 1937, and it is a day off for many workers. Hawaii, however, stopped recognizing Columbus day in 1971 as a state holiday and instead changed the 2nd Monday of October to be Discoveres’ Day and a non-state holiday. Interestingly, when Columbus Day was removed as a state holiday, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was added to the roster instead.
Many other places have also moved to celebrate a different holiday today, be it Indigenous Peoples’ Day or Native American Day. Years ago, there was talk about changing Discoverers’ Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day, but that did not happen.
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Jon M says
As a 75 year old man I have concerns about the elimination of statues,History, and old traditions. As a native Hawaiian, and student of Polynesian Culture, I would love to see the migration and settlement of Hawaii recognized.
Aloha
Cathy C. says
Discoverers Day or Indigenous Peoples Day, whichever the natives of Hawaii prefer. Just so we don’t celebrate the multi-continent genocide that Columbus enthusiastically kicked off.
Mahalo for asking.
Rod W says
I’m damn glad Columbus found the Americas.
Fred says
[Banned].
SteveP says
Happy Columbus Day! From an Italian ancestor of Columbus who is choosing not to take offense at being slighted on this National Holiday.
P.S.-if one chooses to judge the actions of people more than 600 years ago by today’s standards, everyone (natives, tribesman, etc.) are all guilty of bad actions. History celebrates the positive accomplishments of people who’ve accomplished more under extreme circumstances than most people could imagine. Why focus on only negative aspects of history?
Mike S says
Well said, STEVEP.
Bill M says
We are down for Discover’s Day!