Columbus Day, 2015

President Obama proclaimed October 12, 2015 as Columbus Day, calling on Americans to observe the day with ceremonies and directing that the U.S. flag be displayed on public buildings. The proclamation acknowledges both Columbus's exploratory legacy and the suffering inflicted on Native Americans, recommitting to tribal sovereignty.

Federal Register Open PDF 80 FR 63077

Impact dates

Oct 12, 2015
Columbus Day observance and flag display on public buildings

Key directives

Proclaim October 12, 2015 as Columbus Day
Call upon people to observe with appropriate ceremonies and activities
Direct that U.S. flag be displayed on all public buildings on October 12, 2015

Timeline

Immediate

Proclamation issued October 9, 2015
Flag display directive for October 12, 2015

Near term (90d)

Columbus Day observance on October 12, 2015

Long term

Annual Columbus Day proclamations expected to continue per 36 U.S.C. 107

Risks & tensions

Balancing celebration of Italian-American heritage with acknowledgment of Native American suffering
Tension between commemorative purpose and historical reassessment of Columbus's legacy