Press Releases

Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) announced she is cosponsoring legislation that would make Indigenous Peoples’ Day a federal holiday, replacing Columbus Day. H.R. 5473, the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act, was recently introduced by Rep. Norma Torres (D-CA). 

Maine is among the 13 states, including the District of Columbia, that recognizes Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a holiday on the state level. 

“For Indigenous people, Columbus Day has long been a painful reminder of the suffering that was inflicted on their ancestors, and an illustration of the ongoing disparity in opportunity and treatment offered to them by the federal government. I am proud that three years ago Maine took overdue steps to recognize the Wabanki Confederacy and acknowledge this painful legacy by declaring the second Monday in October to be Indigenous Peoples’ Day. However, we need a national reckoning, too. By declaring Indigenous Peoples’ Day a federal holiday, Americans have the opportunity to acknowledge our shared history and recognize native tribes as this land’s true first inhabitants,” said Congresswoman Pingree. 

Congresswoman Pingree serves as Chair on the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, and is a member of the Native American Caucus.

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