Bill > HR5739

This bill, called the "Italian Heroes and Heritage Act," seeks to prohibit federal funding to any state or local government that chooses to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day instead of Columbus Day. The bill begins by highlighting historical context, noting that Christopher Columbus sailed across the Atlantic in 1492 and that President Benjamin Harrison established Columbus Day in 1892 to honor Columbus and commemorate 11 Italian-Americans who were murdered in a lynching incident. The legislation specifically states that no federal funds may be provided to any government entity that replaces Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day during the one-year period starting after October 13, 2025, and in subsequent years. The bill reflects a congressional stance that Columbus Day should continue to be celebrated nationwide on October 13th as a way to honor Italian-American heritage and recognize Columbus's role in exploring the Americas. By linking federal funding to the observance of Columbus Day, the bill aims to discourage local governments from shifting to Indigenous Peoples Day, which has gained momentum in recent years as a way to recognize the indigenous populations impacted by European colonization.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5739/all-info