ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 8437ProclamationObama · DCeremonial

Proclamation 8437

Columbus Day, 2009

President Obama issued a ceremonial proclamation designating October 12, 2009, as Columbus Day, calling on Americans to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and directing that the U.S. flag be displayed on all public buildings. The proclamation recounts Columbus's voyage, acknowledges hardships suffered by indigenous communities, and celebrates Italian American contributions.

Federal Register Open PDF 74 FR 53147

Impact dates

  1. Columbus Day observation and flag display on public buildings

Key directives

  • Proclaim October 12, 2009 as Columbus Day
  • Call upon people to observe with appropriate ceremonies and activities
  • Direct flag display on all public buildings on October 12, 2009

Timeline

Immediate

  • Proclamation of October 12, 2009 as Columbus Day
  • Flag display directive for public buildings

Near term (90d)

—

Long term

  • Annual recurrence of Columbus Day (second Monday of October) per existing statute

Risks & tensions

  • Acknowledgment of indigenous hardships alongside celebration of Columbus may generate cultural tension; text notes 'competing ways of life were initially at odds' without further elaboration
Proclamation 8437: Columbus Day, 2009 · Executive Orders