With the passage of time, more and more cities and states in America are officially recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day in lieu of the traditional observance of Columbus Day.

Somerville has been onboard for a couple of years now, and more of our neighboring communities across the Commonwealth, including the City of Boston, are joining in each year.

And just last week the Biden administration announced its proclamation endorsing the nation’s adoption of the occasion. While not yet an official federal holiday, the move signals the possibility of just such an upgrading in the foreseeable future.

Not everyone agrees with the abandonment of Columbus Day. Some of those who are of Italian ancestry in particular are taking umbrage with the situation, taking it as a sight to their national heritage. This point of view would seem to be unfairly skewed, however, since the primary reasons for this relegation have everything to do with the explorer’s own actions in the New World, and nothing at all to do with his particular nationality.

As the historical record becomes clearer over time, we must learn to adapt and revise our perceptions in regards to figures of historical import.

As Americans we are completely free to celebrate and honor anyone we wish to. Either as a society in its entirely or in smaller groups who share common interests.

In the meantime, Indigenous Peoples’ Day provides a much-needed opportunity to shed light on a segment of our society that has for too long been neglected.