President Trump has restored Columbus Day as a federal holiday, reversing decades of efforts to name it after Indigenous People. The move signals a renewed emphasis on celebrating historical figures central to Western civilization and American heritage.
“Today our Nation honors the legendary Christopher Columbus—the original American hero, a giant of Western civilization, and one of the most gallant and visionary men to ever walk the face of the earth,” Trump said. He framed the decision as a defense of historical memory, warning that “left-wing arsonists have sought to destroy his name and dishonor his memory.”
The President highlighted Columbus’s voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in 1492, noting his mission to discover new trade routes, bring glory to Spain, and spread Christianity. “Guided by steadfast prayer and unwavering fortitude and resolve, Columbus’s journey carried thousands of years of wisdom, philosophy, reason, and culture across the Atlantic into the Americas—paving the way for the ultimate triumph of Western civilization less than three centuries later on July 4, 1776,” Trump wrote.
The proclamation also celebrated Italian-American contributions to U.S. culture and pledged continued strengthening of ties between the countries. Trump emphasized that the holiday should honor Columbus’s courage, faith, and perseverance. “Above all, we commit to restoring a Nation that once again dares to tame the unknown, honors our rich cultural inheritance, and offers rightful praise to our Creator above,” he said.
Congress first requested Columbus Day observance in 1934, later amended in 1968. Under Trump’s directive, the flag of the United States will be displayed on all public buildings on the second Monday of October.
The move is certain to spark debate over historical legacy and Indigenous recognition, but Trump called it “a simple truth: Christopher Columbus was a true American hero, and every citizen is eternally indebted to his relentless determination.”