Portland adopts 'Indigenous Peoples' Day

PORTLAND (WGME) -- Columbus Day for Portland and Brunswick will also now be known as "Indigenous Peoples' Day."

City and town councilors voted in favor of that change Monday night.

Columbus Day is a federal holiday which Portland city councilors have no control over.

Monday night's public comment on changing Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples' Day stirred up conversation.

Some were against the change, claiming Christopher Columbus is a part of America's history.

Others disagreed, claiming it was the indigenous people who found our county, and the change would be an outlet to reveal the truth.

Federally, America has celebrated Columbus Day since the 1930s. Some residents recommended councilors chose a different date, but councilors voted unanimously for Indigenous Peoples' Day, claiming Portland residents have the opportunity to celebrate which ever they'd like.

The resolution was sponsored by City Councilor Pious Ali. He says he's very pleased with the outcome.

Article source: http://wgme.com/news/local/portland-adopts-indigenous-peoples-day