<p>^well… I just read through the thread and now I have to comment…</p>
<p>“‘you’re guilty of all indians who died! you are guilty of polluting our earth! of being richer than people in africa! of being this particular color! and religion! feel very very bad about yourself! But it’s ok! Just give us some cash, and everything will be set right. Then you can go back to whatever you were doing, and not care anymore. Until we ask your cash and support again!’”</p>
<p>Negru, nobody is trying to force guilt down your throat. The name of the holiday honors a person responsible for innumerable tragedies; unless you feel that your identity as a white american is somehow interlaced with the triumphs of Columbus, retiring his name is neither guilt-imposing nor manipulative.</p>
<p>I don’t hold Columbus accountable for the ethical flaws inherent in his culture. Many historical figures are tainted by the immoral values of their time – they don’t command my respect or my scorn. In the same way, Columbus’ treatment of the natives sheds light on some of the shortcomings of western civilization. Apart from the physical destruction of most indigenous peoples, Columbus Day represents the introduction (and domination) of western values to the rest of the world, something that in my opinion is far from deserving celebration.</p>