Trump Marks Columbus Day, Praises Explorer's Drive for Discovery as 'core of the American spirit'
President not among officials opting to mark Indigenous Peoples Day instead
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October 16, 2019
There are some public officials, cities and states which prefer not to recognize Columbus Day on Monday, opting instead to mark Indigenous Peoples Day, also known as Native Americans Day.
At least eight states, 10 universities and more than 130 cities across 34 states now observe Indigenous Peoples Day as an alternative to the federally recognized Columbus Day, which they say glorifies the mistreatment and colonization of Native Americans, according to USA Today.
President Trump, however, instead has issued a formal proclamation recognizing Columbus Day, citing Columbus as a “great explorer, whose courage, skill, and drive for discovery are at the core of the American spirit.”
Mr. Trump called the two-month journey across the Atlantic a “watershed voyage” which ushered in a new age. The president also put in a good word for Italian-Americans.
“While Columbus sailed from the port of Palos under the Spanish flag, he took pride in the fact that he was a citizen of Genoa, Italy. The celebration of Columbus Day is, therefore, an appropriate opportunity to recognize the more than 16 million Americans who claim Italian heritage and to carry forth the legacy of generations of Italian Americans who helped shape our Nation,” Mr. Trump noted in his proclamation.
“The United States greatly values its close bond with Italy, a longstanding friend, ally, and economic partner. Our relationship, built on shared values and a commitment to furthering peace and prosperity, continues to benefit both of our nations,” he continued.
“Columbus’s daring voyage to the New World brought two continents together, enabling a global perspective for the first time. The bold legacy of Columbus and his crew spun a thread that weaves through the extensive history of Americans who have pushed the boundaries of exploration. On Columbus Day, we draw inspiration from this intrepid pioneer’s spirit of adventure. We also affirm our commitment to continuing our quest to discover and better understand the wonders of our Nation, the world, and beyond,” Mr. Trump noted.
As of late Sunday, Mr. Trump had yet to issue a proclamation for Indigenous Peoples Day.
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