House Republicans have introduced legislation aiming to reaffirm Columbus Day as a federal holiday while withholding funds from areas recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day. Supporters said the bill aims to defend Italian American heritage, whereas critics have argued it politicizes culture and undermines local control. Democrats noted the measure may overreach by tying federal funds to alignment with the Republican agenda.
Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) wrote, “Happy Indigenous People’s Day! We are all on stolen land.” She added, “And while Republicans try to whitewash American history, we acknowledge our country’s role in inflicting trauma on our Indigenous neighbors.”
Rep. Michael Rulli (R-OH) sponsored the bill, saying it protects Italian American traditions and federal authority. He added it is not meant to diminish Native American significance, advocating for a separate day for Indigenous communities.
Rulli said, “This is about every son and daughter of Italy, every Knights of Columbus, every pasta dinner on Sunday, and every communion — everything that makes our culture who we are, from Philadelphia to San Francisco.”
Rulli stated, “We are not going to allow any American municipality to think that they have power over the federal government.” He added, “I mean, the Native Americans are some of the most amazing, dynamic cultural people that make up the fabric of America. But they need their own special day.”
Rulli added, “And I would be willing to do that. I’m saying right now, I would be willing to get the indigenous people their own day, but not this day.”
The bill followed a presidential proclamation restoring Columbus Day and honoring Italian American contributions. President Donald Trump said, “I’m bringing Columbus Day back from the ashes.” He added, “The Democrats did everything possible to destroy Christopher Columbus, his reputation, and all of the Italians that love him so much.”
Rulli stated “I don’t care what party you’re in … if you come from Italian American descent, you love what President Trump did. It was a wonderful olive branch to all Italian Americans.”
Rulli concluded, “By no means, no way, shape or form, is this bill meant to offend any of the indigenous people. They deserve their own day. We will get them their own day, but not Columbus Day. This has already been embedded in our fabric for 130 years.”
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