Colombia Marks Columbus Day by Celebrating its Cultural Diversity
Colombia celebrates today what is known in the U.S. as Columbus Day, with a clear focus on embracing its vast cultural diversity. This holiday has evolved from the celebration of the so-called “Day of the Race,” (Dia de la Raza) a term that was exclusionary and imposed, to what is now recognized as the “Day […]
Every October 12, Colombia observes Columbus Day, a holiday that has evolved to celebrate the country's rich cultural diversity. This transformation took place from the original celebration of the "Day of the Race" (Dia de la Raza), a term deemed exclusionary, to the current recognition of "Day of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity of the Colombian Nation" (Dia de la Diversidad Etnica y Cultural de la Nacion Colombiana).
Historically, this holiday was initially called "Dia de la Raza" (Race Day) to commemorate October 12, 1492, when Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas. This marked the beginning of European contact with the Americas, leading to a period of colonization and exploitation. Colombian President Ivan Duque pushed for a name change in 2021, which became official in 2023.
Colombia, home to over 80 indigenous peoples, Afro-descendant and Palenquero communities, as well as mestizos and whites, considers its cultural diversity a significant strength. Hence, Oct. 12 in Colombia is not just a remembrance of Columbus's arrival but a tribute to all cultures that have influenced the nation's identity.
Written by urgent.news from Colombia One's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
