Indigenous Peoples’ Day, celebrated on the second Monday of October in the United States, recognizes the contributions and legacy of indigenous people who lived in America before Christopher Columbus arrived. President Joe Biden formally recognized the holiday in 2021, acknowledging the harmful federal policies that sought to assimilate and displace Native people. Many states officially celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, while over 100 cities have replaced Columbus Day with this holiday.
On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, many students have the day off from school, but some may still have classes. Office workers may also have the day off, while others may need to run errands. It is important to note what will be open and closed on that day. While it is a Federal Reserve bank holiday, the stock markets will be open, including Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange. Some major US banks, such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank, will be closed, while others like Chase Bank and TD Bank will remain open for business.
With regards to mail services, the United States Postal Service will be closed on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, meaning no mail or packages will be delivered. However, UPS and FedEx will mostly be operating as usual, with FedEx Express and FedEx Ground Economy having modified service. UPS will continue its normal operations. Most big box retailers like Target, Walmart, and Kroger will be open, but it is advisable to check with local businesses for their specific operating hours. Government buildings such as the DMV, libraries, courts, and offices will be closed as it is a government holiday.
Overall, Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a significant holiday that honors the history and culture of Native American communities in the United States. It is important to recognize and celebrate the contributions of indigenous peoples, especially in light of the harmful actions taken against them throughout history. As more cities and states embrace Indigenous Peoples’ Day, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to promote equality, justice, and inclusivity for all individuals, regardless of their background.
