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    • What is open, closed on Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day 2024
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    What is open, closed on Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day 2024

    Kathleen William Posted on

    New York Connect team
    | USA Today Network

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    Columbus Day was declared a national holiday in 1934 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Since 1971 it has been celebrated as a federal holiday on the second Monday in October. However, many now recognize the day as Indigenous Peoples Day, questioning Columbus' legacy due to his role in the colonization and violence against indigenous peoples in North America.

    President Joe Biden has issued Indigenous Peoples Day proclamations for the past three years to honor the perseverance and courage of indigenous communities, even though it is not a federal holiday. However, Columbus Day remains a federal holiday, although it is “one of the most irregularly celebrated” in the U.S., according to the Pew Research Center.

    Since both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day fall on Monday, will stores and services be open? Here's what you should know.

    Are post offices open?

    No, the post offices are closed and no mail is being delivered.

    Are banks open?

    Most banks, including Wells Fargo and Bank of America, are closing. While Chase will have branches open, it will treat online transactions like a regular federal holiday.

    What about other federal offices?

    Non-essential federal offices such as Federal Student Aid will be closed.

    Why is Columbus Day celebrated?

    Columbus Day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492, which marked the beginning of European colonization. While it is celebrated by some, particularly in the Italian-American community, it has become a controversial holiday due to the impact of colonization on indigenous peoples.

    Is Indigenous Peoples Day an official holiday?

    Proponents of Indigenous Peoples' Day argue that it recognizes the devastating effects of European colonization on Indigenous communities, including violence, slavery and the spread of disease. Although it is not a federal holiday, it is officially recognized in some states and cities. Approximately 29 states and Washington, D.C. do not celebrate Columbus Day, and over 200 cities have replaced it with Indigenous Peoples Day.

    Contribution: USA Today Network

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    Kathleen William
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