Why No National Holiday Honors Native American Indians?

One might wonder why there isn't a national holiday to commemorate Native American Indians. Their rich and diverse cultures, spanning centuries, deserve recognition.

Lack of National Holiday

The United States, in its current form, has never officially recognized a national holiday dedicated to Native American Indians. This has been a longstanding debate within the country, particularly following significant social movements and recognition of marginalized communities.

Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday

Juneteenth, an important day marking the end of slavery, is a federal holiday observed on June 19th each year. It grants federal workers a day off. Federal holidays, however, leave the door open for other communities to choose their own significant dates and celebrations, which have been reflected in the increasing recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day.

Indigenous Peoples Day: A Growing Movement

A robust movement has emerged, particularly since the 1970s, advocating for a shift in the traditional commemoration of Christopher Columbus to a celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day. This shift reflects a broader acknowledgment of the historical and contemporary contributions and struggles of Native American Indians. As of now, 13 states and the capital city of Washington, D.C., have officially recognized Indigenous Peoples Day as a public holiday. Additionally, numerous cities across the country have joined this initiative, celebrating Native American culture and heritage.

Potential Reasons for Absence of a National Holiday

The political climate of the United States often poses significant barriers to implementing such a change. Politicians may be hesitant to initiate or support measures that might cause controversy or challenge the established historical narratives. As seen with Juneteenth, holidays recognizing the contributions of marginalized communities often gain traction when there is a concerted effort, particularly by politically influential groups.

Challenges in Naming

Another obstacle in recognizing a national holiday dedicated to Native American Indians is the issue of nomenclature. Proposed names such as "Native American Day" may not resonate well with everyone. The term "Native" is often used to denote people who were already present in a region before the arrival of colonizers. However, many Native Americans find this term unsatisfactory and prefer to use other terms like "Indian," which has its own set of cultural and historical connotations. The term "Native American," while commonly used, might not fully capture the unique identities and diverse experiences of Native American communities.

Conclusion

The absence of a dedicated national holiday for Native American Indians is a complex issue rooted in historical, cultural, and political factors. While significant strides have been made through the establishment of Indigenous Peoples Day, a broader national recognition remains elusive. Continued efforts and dialogue are necessary to ensure that the contributions and resilience of Native American Indians are honored and celebrated on a nationwide scale.