President Biden issued a proclamation on Friday to observe Monday, Oct. 9, as a day to honor Indigenous Peoples Day 2023 and also issued a Columbus Day proclamation

Columbus Day remains a federal holiday that gives federal government employees the day off from work.

In his proclamation he honored Native Americans, their “resilience, strength, and perseverance” and “determination to preserve cultures, identities, and ways of life,” even as they have faced “violence and devastation.”

In another proclamation, President Biden celebrated all Italian Americans “whose courage and character reflect and help define our Nation.” In his proclamation he celebrated “the heritage of Italian Americans, whose hands helped build our Nation and whose hearts have always carried faith in the American Dream.” 

You can also visit We Are Teachers wesite and see Activities, books, and more about Indigenous Peoples Day.