Google and Apple Calendars Reflect Ongoing Debate Over Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day

On a typical Monday in October, Americans checking their phones for holiday information might find differences depending on their calendar app. Apple Calendar shows both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, while Google Calendar lists only Columbus Day.

This distinction highlights a broader national debate over how the holiday should be observed. Historically, the second Monday in October recognized Christopher Columbus. The Italian explorer’s legacy remains a topic of contention, with many advocating for the day to also honor Indigenous peoples.

Calendar Differences

Apple includes both holidays as part of its U.S. Calendar, while Google has opted to follow a streamlined approach. Google previously added a wide array of cultural celebrations but shifted in mid-2024 to primarily show public holidays and national observances.

Google explained this decision by stating, We got feedback that many other events and countries were missing… so in mid-2024 we made the decision to simplify and show only public holidays and national observances from timeanddate.com.

These choices matter because Columbus Day is a federal holiday, whereas Indigenous Peoples’ Day is acknowledged in varied forms across several states and Washington, D.C., but lacks federal holiday status.

Understanding the Public Debate

The differences between the two calendar platforms mirror America’s broader conversation about the holiday’s significance. Columbus Day celebrates Columbus’ 1492 voyage and holds particular importance for the Italian American community. Many consider it a recognition of their cultural history and past discrimination.

Conversely, for many Native Americans and critics, Columbus’ journey represents the onset of European colonization and the related violence. Indigenous Peoples’ Day serves as a recognition of Indigenous history and culture, rather than merely celebrating Columbus.

Current Recognition Across States

Five states, including Montana and Nebraska, recognize both Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day. The order of precedence for these holidays has become politically charged. As HR consultant Bryan Driscoll noted, reflecting on both days isn’t about erasure but about acknowledging the complexities of U.S. history.

Driscoll stated, Indigenous Peoples’ Day isn’t about erasing history, but instead it’s about recognizing that history didn’t begin when white folk arrived.

Technology Platforms and User Experience

Google Calendar allows customization. Users can choose to display public holidays, other observances, or even add holidays from different regions. This flexibility partially mitigates criticism, but the lack of default recognition for Indigenous Peoples’ Day has been controversial.

Nichole Pitts, an ethics and inclusion advisor, outlined the broader implications of these choices. She noted that recognizing Indigenous heritage challenges the incomplete historical narratives often taught in schools.

The Political Context

Federally, Columbus Day remains the recognized holiday. Although President Joe Biden was the first to formally acknowledge Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 2021, this did not replace the federal observance of Columbus Day. His predecessor, Donald Trump, advocated strongly for Columbus Day, emphasizing its historical importance for Italian Americans.

Critics argue that celebrating Columbus ignores the negative impact of his arrival on Indigenous peoples. Companies like Apple, by including both holidays, attempt to honor diverse cultural narratives. In contrast, Google’s policy reflects its streamlined approach to holiday recognition.

The Path Forward

The intersection of public opinion, calendar features, and holiday recognition reflects a nation at odds with its history. Different states and local governments will continue to adopt diverse approaches.

The broader discourse around Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day underscores how significant historical narratives remain contested territory in the U.S.