Recommended
Every October 12 is a commemoration of one of the most debated dates in history: the arrival of Christopher Columbus to the American continent in 1492. For decades, the day was known as the Day of the Race (Día de la Raza) in much of Latin America, but over time its meaning has evolved and today it generates different interpretations depending on the country.
While some consider it a symbol of the encounter between Europe and America, others see it as an occasion to reflect on the consequences that the conquest had for indigenous peoples.
The date marks the moment when the expedition led by Columbus arrived in what we now know as America, an event that transformed world history and gave rise to profound cultural, social, political, and economic changes on both continents.
Why is it called Day of the Race?
According to the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), the term emerged to highlight the mestizaje and cultural union derived from the encounter between the indigenous peoples of America and the Europeans. The commemoration has also been known as the “Encounter of Two Worlds,” an expression that seeks to highlight the cultural exchange that occurred starting in 1492.
The CNDH explains that Columbus believed he had arrived in the Indies, which is why he called the inhabitants he encountered “Indians.” Over time, the term “indigenous” began to be used to refer to the original peoples of the American continent.
What is celebrated in Mexico?
In Mexico, October 12 was historically known as the Day of the Race. However, in recent years the official vision has changed to recognize cultural diversity and the importance of native peoples. Since 2020, the Government of Mexico has officially called this date the Day of the Pluricultural Nation.
The commemoration seeks to recognize the country's multicultural, multiethnic, and multilingual richness, as well as promote reflection on the history of the conquest and its effects on indigenous communities. Currently, cultural, educational, and historical analysis activities take place rather than festive celebrations.
What is celebrated in the United States?
In the United States, the date is traditionally known as Columbus Day, a federal holiday celebrated on the second Monday of October. The commemoration honors Christopher Columbus’s voyage and has also been an important date to recognize the contributions of the Italian-American community, as the explorer was born in Genoa, Italy.
The history of the celebration is closely linked to Italian immigrants. According to US presidential proclamations, the holiday began to gain relevance after the lynching of 11 Italian-Americans in New Orleans in 1891 and was promoted as a way to recognize this community.
However, in recent decades many states and cities have also begun to commemorate Indigenous Peoples' Day, a date oriented toward recognizing the history, resistance, and contributions of native communities, as well as the consequences that colonization had for them.
What is celebrated in Spain?
In Spain, October 12 is celebrated as the Day of Hispanicity (Día de la Hispanidad) or the National Day of Spain. The date highlights the historical, cultural, and linguistic ties between Spain and Spanish-American countries, as well as the expansion of the Spanish language and culture following Columbus’s voyages.
For many Spaniards, the day represents an opportunity to value the shared cultural heritage among Spanish-speaking countries. However, there are also debates regarding the legacy of colonization and how this chapter of history should be interpreted.
Why is it a controversial date?
The October 12 has become one of the most controversial anniversaries on the continent because there are very different visions regarding its meaning. For some, it represents the beginning of the cultural exchange and the mestizaje that shaped today's societies. For others, it symbolizes the beginning of processes of conquest, violence, dispossession, and discrimination against native peoples.
Therefore, several countries have replaced the name Day of the Race with terms such as Day of Indigenous Resistance, Day of Native Peoples, Day of Cultural Diversity, or Day of the Pluricultural Nation. More than a celebration, the date has transformed into a space for reflection on history, identity, and the cultural diversity of America.
Be part of our WhatsApp channel. VIVE USA is now available! Stay informed from your mobile device about the most relevant news on travel, work, life in the United States and Canada, celebrities, trends, and much more.
[Publicidad]