At least 14 states and Washington, D.C., do not officially observe Columbus Day, choosing instead to drop it or replace it with alternative observances, according to CNN.Many local governments and states made this change to honor native populations and address the controversial history of European exploration.As CNN reports, “states and local governments can choose not to observe a federal holiday. And, as is the case with a growing number of places, change the name and intent of the October holiday altogether.”States That Replaced or Renamed the Holiday Alaska: Officially observes Indigenous Peoples' Day.Hawaii: Celebrates Discoverers' Day to honor Polynesian navigators.Maine: Observes Indigenous Peoples' Day.New Mexico: Observes Indigenous Peoples' Day.Oregon: Observes Indigenous Peoples' Day.South Dakota: Celebrates Native American Day.Vermont: Observes Indigenous Peoples' Day.Virginia: Officially observes Indigenous Peoples' Day.Washington: Marks Indigenous Peoples' Day.Other States With Changes MIUS state Michigan Have also shifted official observances to Indigenous Peoples' Day.IA
