President Trump honors Christopher Columbus amid debate over controversial legacy
President Donald Trump signed a proclamation celebrating Christopher Columbus as “the original American hero” and accusing his critics of slander.
Monday, Oct. 13, has the unique distinction of being the day two holidays are celebrated– Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Columbus Day, celebrated on the second Monday in October, has been a federal holiday since 1892 and is celebrated across the country with parades that highlight Italian-American heritage and pride, according to the Smithsonian Magazine.
Former President Joe Biden issued the first presidential proclamation for Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 2021, on the same date as Columbus Day. While not recognized as a federal holiday, it is recognized as a holiday in some cities and states. The proclamation followed years of criticism over Christopher Columbus’ treatment of Native Americans.
Here’s what you need to know about what is open and closed on Monday, Oct. 13, this year.
Are banks, post offices, and shipping services open on Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
All post offices will be closed for retail transactions, and there will be no regular residential or business mail deliveries on Monday, Oct. 13, according to the U.S. Postal Service’s website. Priority Mail Express is available 365 days a year, including federal holidays.
Branches of Capital One, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, Citibank, and JPMorgan Chase will be closed on Oct. 13, the companies told USA TODAY. Capital One Cafes will remain open.
As for shipping services, UPS pickup and delivery services will be available on Oct. 13, and UPS Store locations will remain open, according to the company’s website. FedEx pickup and delivery services will also be available on Oct. 13, and FedEx Office locations will also be open on the day, according to the company’s website.
Is the stock market open on Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Monday, Oct. 13, will be a regular business day for United States stock markets, as markets will not close in observance of Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day. The U.S. bond market, however, will be closed, according to the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association.
After closing for Labor Day on Sept. 1, it will be business as usual on Wall Street until late November, as the next scheduled stock market closure is on Thursday, Nov. 27, in observance of Thanksgiving.
Are government buildings and courts closed on Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Most federal and state government offices, including courts, will be closed on Oct. 13 since Columbus Day is a federal holiday.
Trash collection and other public services may also be affected depending on your locality.
Are grocery stores, restaurants, and retail stores open on Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Yes, most grocery stores, restaurants, and retail stores should be open their regular hours on Oct. 13; however, it is best to confirm with your local store before heading out the door.
Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at [email protected].
