Italian Heritage Day, also known as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, is celebrated annually on Oct. 14. This unique holiday honors the history and contributions of both Italian immigrants and Indigenous Americans.

The day serves as a way to celebrate the important legacy of Italian culture—highlighting their native language, art, cuisine, and community values—while reflecting on the historical challenges of the Indigenous experience in America.

The origins of the Oct. 14 celebration date back to Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World in 1492. Columbus was, at one time, celebrated as a figure of exploration and discovery; however, his voyages also marked the beginning of European colonization and significant suffering for Indigenous people.

In 1989, the day was rebranded to Italian Heritage Day to celebrate Italian Americans’ contributions. This shift has sparked debate. Supporters of Italian Heritage Day argue that it is important to acknowledge the unique cultural contributions of Italian Americans. Others argue that the celebration of Columbus should not overshadow the mistreatment of many through colonization.

On Oct. 14, the Columbus Day Parade in New York City is one of the most notable events, organized by the Columbus Citizens Foundation.

Having both Italian Heritage Day and Indigenous People’s Day together showcases a better understanding of identity, heritage, and reflection.