Understanding Columbus Day and State Holidays in California

Columbus Day: A Federal Holiday

Columbus Day is recognized as a federal holiday in the United States, celebrated on the second Monday of October each year. However, this holiday does not hold the same status across all states, particularly in California.

California’s Stance on Columbus Day

In California, Columbus Day is not treated as a paid holiday for state employees. Instead, California has officially recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which aims to honor the history and culture of Native Americans. This shift reflects a growing acknowledgment of the historical impact of colonization.

State Employees and Paid Holidays

For California state employees, paid holidays typically include notable days such as New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Cesar Chavez Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Unfortunately, Columbus Day does not make this list. Employees who wish to take time off on Columbus Day can do so by using a personal day, as it is not automatically granted as a paid holiday.

In summary, while Columbus Day exists as a federal holiday, California’s approach reflects a broader commitment to recognizing significant aspects of its indigenous communities and culture. As society continues to evolve, so too does our understanding and recognition of holidays, steering towards inclusivity and respect for all histories.