In an announcement that comes as both a recognition of past injustices and a celebration of indigenous culture, Boulder County has declared its government offices will be shut down Monday, Oct.13, in observance of Indigenous Peoples' Day. This holiday, which falls on the second Monday of October yearly, has become a potent symbol of reconsideration and reclamation of the narrative once dominated by Columbus Day.
The closure is set to affect the operations of various county offices, but it's important to note that services considered essential will remain operational. According to Boulder County, this includes "24/7 public safety, child and adult protection, or maintenance operations." Residents looking to handle certain services online can still do so as the county's digital presence remains unobstructed by the holiday.
Boulder County joins a growing list of municipalities and states across the nation that have shifted to honor Indigenous Peoples' Day, a change that reflects an evolving understanding of the country's history and the desire to honor the contributions and experiences of indigenous communities.
