Rep. Bowen offers legislation observing October 12 as Indigenous Peoples Day
The legislation would put an end to Wisconsin’s observation of Columbus Day each October 12.
Milwaukee – Today, Rep. David Bowen (D-Milwaukee) announced he is circulating legislation to recognize October 12 as Indigenous Peoples Day.
“When European explorers made landfall in the Caribbean five centuries ago, millions of indigenous people were living in what is now the United States,” Bowen said. “Wisconsin has a strong Native American population with a vibrant history, present, and future, and it is important that we celebrate our state’s and our nation’s indigenous populations.”
Bowen’s legislation would put an end to Wisconsin’s observation of Columbus Day each October 12.
“It is important to learn about and understand even the most shameful aspects of our history, but that doesn’t mean we should celebrate them and negate the truth. As freedom-loving Americans, it is ironic that we would celebrate an individual whose legacy is built on the destruction of freedom for so many who already lived in the “New World” upon the arrival of Columbus,” said Bowen. “Instead of celebrating Columbus, who is more accurately credited with initiating the trans-Atlantic slave trade than with discovering America, this bill observes the importance of indigenous peoples to our society. Our children especially deserve a state that recognizes the truth so our schools can teach the same.”
Mentioned in This Press Release
Recent Press Releases by State Rep. David Bowen
Rep. Bowen Statement on Republican Comments during JFC Session
Jun 5th, 2019 by State Rep. David Bowen“Every single child across our state is worth taking care of.”
Republican Refusal to Expand Medicaid in WI Makes Bad Dollars & Sense
May 3rd, 2019 by State Rep. David BowenWisconsinites Want Expansion & Their Federal Money Now
Medical Marijuana Would Provide an Economic Boost to Wisconsin
Apr 23rd, 2019 by State Rep. David BowenLegalization is What Wisconsinites Want
