25-26 APUSH oct 13 Columbus statue per 4 prior knowledge

Yesterday was Columbus Day. It used to be a Federal Holiday and schools were closed. Now you have a half day and I have teacher meetings after 12. Since this topic is still in the news and debated, and views of the holiday and Columbus continue to change, it is worth exploring. Please answer these "prior knowledge" questions below (without using any resources- I am interested in what you know and think now, before we learn more).
Name: 


  1. 1)Should Columbus Day be a federal holiday and schools be closed?
    Why or why not?

    2)Should statues of Christopher Columbus in public places be removed or remain standing?


  1. What do you know about the debate/controversy concerning the Columbus holiday and statues of Christopher Columbus?


  1. What are the arguments/positions/concerns different groups have regarding these statues and the holiday?





Michael OToole
NJ