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Bill to change name of Columbus Day takes step forward
After emotional testimony from members of the American Indian caucus, joined by both Democrats and Republicans who implored lawmakers to change the name of Columbus Day to Montana Heritage Day, members of the House voted 73-27 to move forward legislation that would do so.
“Young children are increasingly exposed to the truth, and it resonates as a just cause for righteous indignation,” Rep. Bridget Smith, D-Wolf Point, said. “It affects the dignity of millions. The time to change this holiday is far overdue.”
House Bill 514, sponsored by Smith, passed out of the House Education Committee on a 17-0 vote after being amended to change the name of the new holiday from the originally proposed Indigenous Peoples Day. It passed second reading Tuesday. It will be up for third reading Wednesday; if passed it will move to the Senate.
Opposing the bill, Rep. Derek Skees, R-Kalispell, said the name of the holiday should stay the same so children can learn lessons from the past.
http://helenair.com/news/politics/state/bill-to-change-name-of-columbus-day-takes-step-forward/article_16f2e9d1-5d75-5de5-a4ad-d428e479c3ae.html