Overview
- At a White House Cabinet meeting, President Trump signed the proclamation and declared, “We’re calling it Columbus Day” and “We’re back, Italians,” as the room applauded.
- The proclamation hails Christopher Columbus as an “original American hero,” condemns statue removals by “left‑wing radicals,” and directs U.S. flags to be displayed on public buildings for the holiday.
- Trump also issued a separate proclamation recognizing October 9 as Leif Erikson Day, honoring the Norse explorer’s spirit of exploration.
- Columbus Day remains a federal holiday closing government offices and post offices; most banks are closed, while FedEx and UPS plan normal operations.
- The White House stance contrasts with President Biden’s 2021 recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day alongside Columbus Day, as many states and cities continue to observe Indigenous-focused commemorations on the same date.