Understanding Columbus Day: History, Observances, And Impacts

Monday, October 9, is Columbus Day, a federal holiday that is widely observed around the U.S., meaning that some businesses and government buildings may be closed. This annual observance commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492, a moment that marked a significant turning point in global history. While many celebrate Columbus Day, it also raises discussions about its implications and the evolution of how we view this historical figure.

Columbus Day first became a federal holiday in 1937 and celebrates Christopher Columbus's arrival in America after a long voyage from Europe. Columbus was initially searching for Asia, but his three ships—the Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria—ended up in the Bahamas, making him the first European explorer to reach the Americas. This holiday, therefore, not only reflects a historical event but also embodies the broader themes of exploration and discovery.

As with other federal holidays, many stores and businesses, including government buildings, will be closed on Columbus Day. This leads to questions about whether the U.S. Post Office will be open and whether people will receive mail. Understanding the operational changes during this holiday can help individuals plan their schedules accordingly.

Will the U.S. Post Office be open on Columbus Day?

A spokesperson for the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) announced that "In observance of the Columbus Day holiday, Postal Service facilities will be closed for retail transactions on Monday, October 9, 2023. There will be no residential or business deliveries." This closure aligns with the USPS's policy of observing federal holidays, which affects many aspects of mail delivery and customer service.

However, it’s important to note that while regular USPS services are suspended, "Priority Mail Express is delivered 365 days a year and will be delivered on October 9th." This means that while most mail services halt, some expedited services will continue, providing options for those who need urgent deliveries.

USPS also closes down for various other federal holidays, including Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day. Understanding these closures helps to manage expectations for mailing and receiving packages during holiday seasons.

While Columbus Day is observed throughout the U.S., some states have moved away from the holiday's name in recent years. States such as Maine, New Mexico, Vermont, and Washington, D.C., have chosen to recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day, acknowledging the historical impact of colonialism. This change reflects a growing awareness and sensitivity towards the narratives and experiences of Indigenous communities.

USPS trucks sit outside the Roberto Clemente Post Office in Chicago, Illinois, on August 25, 2009. The USPS will not deliver mail this year on Columbus Day, October 9.

On Indigenous Peoples' Day, President Joe Biden stated, "Our Nation celebrates the invaluable contributions and resilience of Indigenous peoples, recognizes their inherent sovereignty, and commits to honoring the Federal Government's trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations." This statement highlights the growing recognition of the contributions made by Indigenous peoples throughout history and emphasizes the importance of honoring their legacies.

This acknowledgment of Indigenous Peoples' Day encourages everyone to celebrate and recognize the many Indigenous communities and cultures that contribute to our diverse society. As the conversation around Columbus Day evolves, it reflects a broader understanding of history, identity, and the impact of colonialism. Ultimately, it invites us to engage with history in a way that promotes inclusivity and respect for all peoples.