This week, we celebrated Indigenous Peoples' Day! But as you probably know, it hasn't always been celebrated as Indigenous Peoples' Day…
In fact, many kids are still celebrating Columbus Day at home or at school, and they may believe a number of myths about Christopher Columbus.
This year, use these holidays as an opportunity to educate your little ones (and yourself!) about these topics. First, let's correct some misconceptions…
Myths About Christopher Columbus: Unraveling the Truth
Myth 1: Columbus discovered America
Fact: Indigenous Peoples thrived in the Americas long before Columbus arrived. They had intricate societies, advanced technologies, and deep connections with the land. Leif Erikson and other explorers from Europe likely reached the Americas before Columbus, so his arrival was not even the first discovery by Europeans.
Myth 2: Columbus landed on land that is now the United States
Fact: Columbus first landed on the island of Guanahani in the Bahamas. In reality, he never set foot on the land that is now the United States' mainland.
Myth 3: Columbus brought "civilization"
Fact: Indigenous cultures were sophisticated and diverse, with their own languages, art, and governance systems. Columbus did not introduce "civilization" but instead disrupted established societies.
Myth 4: Columbus was praised and celebrated during his time
Fact: Columbus faced criticism even in his time due to his harsh treatment of Indigenous Peoples and his crew. He was far from being universally admired.
Explaining the Story of Christopher Columbus to Kids
Discussing Indigenous Peoples' Day and Columbus Day with children can be a powerful educational opportunity when it comes to social justice. For these conversations, we recommend:
Honesty: Be honest about Columbus's actions while emphasizing the rich cultures and resilience of Native Americans.
Interactive Learning: Engage kids with books, documentaries, and activities.
Storytelling: Share stories of Indigenous changemakers, emphasizing their contributions to arts, science, and culture.
Community Engagement: If possible, participate in local Indigenous Peoples' Day events, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
To join our community of changemakers and get more resources on talking to kids about social justice, sign up for the LJL newsletter here.