Yes. And here's why. First recognized as a national holiday in 1934, Columbus Day honors Italian explorer Christopher Columbus' so-called 'discovery' of the Americas. But for many Native Americans, it's a slap in the face. That's because Columbus' arrival kicked off a wave of colonization — including centuries of violence, displacement, and forced assimilation. So, in recent decades, there's been a push to change the second Monday of October to Indigenous Peoples' Day.
Tell me.
The idea has been picking up steam. In 1990, South Dakota became the first state to make the switch. Since then, more than a dozen other states and over 100 cities have followed suit. Last year, President Biden became the first president to formally recognize the day — which honors the strength and contributions of Native communities and acknowledges the challenges that Indigenous people continue to face. But this shift isn't without pushback: Some Italian Americans have defended Columbus Day as a time to celebrate their heritage, while others have proposed celebrating on another day.
And what do Native Americans say?
While some believe Indigenous Peoples' Day is a step in the right direction (reminder, it's not a federal holiday), others think that a symbolic gesture is not enough. Because the marginalization of Native Americans is not confined to the past. Today, an estimated 10% reportedly don't have access to safe drinking water or basic sanitation. And the effects of climate change (think: rising sea levels, extreme heat) are making their already-diminished amount of land (think: because of forced relocation) uninhabitable. Plus, more than 4 in 5 American Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced violence in their lifetime — and many have raised the alarm about the epidemic of murdered and missing women and girls. Indigenous communities also face significant health disparities (see: higher rates of diabetes, psychological distress) when compared to other US groups, as well as a shorter life expectancy.
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While there have been some strides forward, a single holiday can't right historical wrongs. Still, lots of people will spend today celebrating and reflecting on Indigenous heritage in the US — a good reminder that more awareness and action is needed all year long.
Looking for recs to check out on Indigenous Peoples' Day? Dive into these books, pods, and shows by Indigenous creators.
"Reservation Dogs"...a comedy series by an all-Indigenous cast, crew, and writer's room about four Oklahoma teens growing up on the rez.
"Poet Warrior" by Joy Harjo…this memoir from the nation's first Native American poet laureate explores heartache, loss, and much more — through a combination of poetry, prose, and song.
"Night of the Living Rez" by Morgan Talty…a buzzy collection of short stories about life on the Penobscot Indian Nation reservation.
"This Land"…an award-winning podcast, hosted by Cherokee writer Rebecca Nagle, that investigates land rights, adoption of Native children, and other timely issues.
"Whereas" by Layli Long Soldier…a poetry collection that responds to the gov's often overlooked "Apology to Native Peoples."
"The Night Watchman" by Louise Erdrich…based on a true story, this book won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. Need we say more?
"Dark Winds"...based on popular mystery novels, this series follows two tribal police officers investigating a series of crimes on the Navajo Nation. Spoiler: It's binge-worthy.
"The Removed" by Brandon Hobson…a powerful novel that tells the story of a fractured family as they reckon with the tragic death of their son.
"The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee" by David Treuer…explores Native American history from 1890 to the present. And highlights Native American resilience despite forced relocation and more.
Wednesday is National Savings Day. So we're back with another money tip from Capital One and broadcast journalist, best-selling author, and money expert Nicole Lapin.
Q: How can someone tell which savings account is right for them?
Nicole Lapin: It'll take a little bit of research. I've found that a high-yield savings account earns higher-than-average interest, a money market account (MMA) earns a higher rate than a traditional savings account but may require a higher minimum balance, and a CD is a great low-risk investment option with a fixed interest rate — potentially a good choice for something you're saving for in the future. Be sure to consider all the fine print (including the term length and fees) before picking.
PS: Nicole's answer has been edited for length and clarity.
Skimm Life
'Tis the season for transitioning your wardrobe from summer to fall fashion.
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. How to set aside more time for yourself this World Mental Health Day. Psst…that's today. This service can match you with a licensed therapist online in less than 48 hours. (Waitlists? Never heard of 'em.) Oh, and Skimm'rs get 20% off their first month. Match up.*
2. A makeup must-have for any PSLover. This brand's eye shadow palette features 18 warm, pumpkin spice-inspired shades for every patch, party, and plan you've got on your cal this fall. The best part? It ships free. Order up.*
3. Our guide to cozy fall loungewear. Temps are getting chillier in many places — and what better way to stay warm this season than with comfy loungewear? Hello, snuggle city.
4. A story about CSU (aka chronic spontaneous urticaria) from someone who's been there. Hint: that's chronic hives with no known cause. Because sometimes the hives start coming and they don't stop coming. Learn more.*
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
M-US-00016841(v1.0) 9/22
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We sat down with actresses Mila Kunis and Chiara Aurelia as they Skimm their new movie, "Luckiest Girl Alive." From how it differs (or doesn't) from the book to the hardest scenes to film and Ashton Kutcher's thoughts. Watch now.
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