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S 2113

An Act establishing an Indigenous Peoples Day

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Barrett and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill would establish Indigenous Peoples Day as official state holiday, shifting historical commemoration away from Columbus Day observance.

Reporting date extended to Friday July 31, 2026
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Bill Summary · S 2113

Legislative bill overview

S 2113 would establish Indigenous Peoples Day as an official state holiday in Massachusetts, replacing or alongside Columbus Day observance. The bill recognizes indigenous peoples' historical presence and contributions while reframing how the state commemorates the encounter between European explorers and Native Americans.

Why is this important

This legislation reflects a nationwide shift in how states and municipalities acknowledge indigenous history. Massachusetts has significant Native American populations and historical sites; changing holiday recognition affects public institutions, school calendars, and government operations. The symbolic change carries implications for historical education and cultural acknowledgment.

Potential points of contention

  • Historical reframing: Supporters see this as correcting narratives that minimized indigenous perspectives; opponents may view it as revisionist or argue Columbus Day honors Italian-American heritage and exploration achievements
  • Practical implementation: Determining whether this replaces Columbus Day entirely, creates a dual observance, or establishes a new holiday affects payroll, scheduling, and business operations across the state
  • Education curriculum questions: Schools must decide what content about indigenous history and colonization to emphasize, potentially sparking debates about age-appropriate material and balanced historical presentation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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