Columbus Day in American Samoa

Columbus Day, which occurs on the second Monday of October, is a federal holiday in the United States, and by extension, is also observed in American Samoa, a U.S. territory. The day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492.

History:

• The celebration of Columbus Day dates back to 1792 when New York City celebrated the 300th anniversary of his landing.
• It became a federal holiday in the United States in 1937.
• While Columbus never visited American Samoa or other parts of Polynesia, the day has been adopted due to American Samoa's political ties with the United States.

Traditions:

• In general, traditional observances of Columbus Day include parades and community events.
• It is also common for some historical and educational groups to use this day as an opportunity to reflect on the history and impact of European exploration and colonization.

Activities:

• In American Samoa, public services are typically closed as it is a federal holiday.
• Residents might attend local parades if organized or participate in community gatherings.
• Schools and educational institutions may use this day to teach students about exploration history and different cultures' encounters.

However, it's important to note that there has been significant controversy over Columbus Day throughout various parts of the United States. Some states and localities have chosen to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day instead as a way to honor Native American history and culture. This shift reflects a reevaluation of historical figures like Columbus and their impact on indigenous peoples. The observance in American Samoa may reflect these broader cultural conversations around identity, history, and commemoration.