Since the 1940's, the President of the United States has been required to issue an annual proclamation, asking the citizens of the United States of America to "reflect on the contributions of Christopher Columbus with appropriate means of celebration."  After careful reflection, I surmise that Columbus is not worthy of the honor that a Federally recognized holiday conveys.  

I grew up in rural Kansas in the late 70s and early 80's in the town of Columbus, Kansas.  During our grade school history lessons we were taught about the "courage" of Christopher Columbus; we all sang the rhyme "In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue." We were taught that he was seeking to prove the earth was round and not flat; how he traveled west instead of east with a goal to discover a new trade route to India.  

I would discover later in life that this history lesson was white washed and abbreviated, and that we were not taught the entire truth.  We were never told that Columbus returned from this maiden voyage to Spain with slaves for the Queen.  We were not taught that subsequent voyages to the new world would result in enslavement, mutilation, and genocide of the existing native population.  Disease, enslavement, and brutality are his legacy, not the discovery of the Americas. 

In addition, continuing to perpetuate the myth of his discovery of the Americas diminishes the earlier discovery of North America by Leif Erickson and the Norsemen during the 11th century.  

Symbols are important in this country.  Much like the Confederate battle flag is an offensive symbol to many in this country, the Columbus day holiday is equally offensive to residents of our country with indigenous backgrounds.  In conclusion, I advocate that this holiday be removed from recognition in our country.  I ask for all who read this post to do the same.