A proclamation for Columbus Day 2024

Today we celebrate the proud heritage of our nation's Italian Americans, whose contributions and character have shaped the soul of our country.

I believe we are the only nation in the world whose heart and soul draws from the old and the new. For some Italian-American families, the stories they tell about their ancestors' lives in this country go back generations. They are stories about immigrants who left everything behind to sail across an ocean and chase the American dream in the hope of a better future. They are stories about ancestors who helped build this country and found the American middle class – and their traditions and recipes continue to bring joy to their families today. They are stories of Italian-American artists, workers, legislators and leaders who never gave up on the idea of ​​America. And for many Italian Americans, the story of Christopher Columbus' voyage across the Atlantic from the Spanish port of Palos de la Frontera on behalf of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II remains a source of pride. But whether their families arrived here centuries ago or more recently, the courage, strength and character of Italian-Americans are woven into the rich fabric of our country.

For many Italian Americans, the lives of their ancestors in this country were not always easy. In addition to the challenges of starting life in a new country, they also faced discrimination. Columbus Day was created in 1892 by President Benjamin Harrison in response to the horrific, xenophobic attack that killed 11 Italian Americans the year before. In the face of hate, Italian Americans persevered to advance our nation and challenge us to live up to our highest values.

My Administration also recognizes that Italian Americans are a source of strength in our country's unwavering alliance, strategic partnership and deep friendship with Italy. The relations between our countries are based on our shared values ​​and principles: democracy, freedom and respect for human rights. Both of our nations are proud to stand with the courageous people of Ukraine in defending themselves against Russia's illegal aggression.

Today, may we honor the history and legacy of Italian Americans and all they have done to realize the full promise of America for generations.

To commemorate the historic voyage of Christopher Columbus 532 years ago, Congress, by joint resolution dated April 30, 1934 and amended in 1968 (36 USC 107), as amended, requested the President to proclaim the second Monday in October of each year as “Columbus Day”.

THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, hereby proclaim October 14, 2024, Columbus Day. I direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and all who have contributed to the shaping of this nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereby laid down my hand
eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-four, and in the year of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.