Democrat lawmaker introduces Indigenous Peoples Day bill

MADISON, Wis. — Under a bill introduced Monday, Oct. 9 would become Indigenous Peoples Day, rather than Columbus Day.

State Rep. David Bowen, D-Milwaukee, announced his legislation that would officially make the second Monday in October a day to honor Native Americans while visiting an Indian Community School.

Columbus Day, which celebrates the founding of America, is celebrated on Oct. 9. Native American advocates and critics of the day say Columbus shouldn’t be celebrated since he displaced Native Americans who were living in America.

“I’m proud to introduce this measure honoring the people who lived for centuries on North America and here in Wisconsin before the so-called discovery of America by European explorers,” Bowen said in a statement.

Indigenous Peoples Day would be a celebration of Native American culture and provide an opportunity to learn more about Native American culture, which has strong heritage in Wisconsin, Bowen said.

The legislation was drafted by students at Indian Community School.

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