I remember growing up in a Midwestern community where every Columbus Day we drew pictures of cartoon boats, explorers, and happy Native Americans. So began the brainwashing of my/our perspectives and vantage points, to expose the wonder in the (white) European's pursuit of conquering seas and storms - not lands and people groups.
But alas, truth is truth.
There are no cartoons (to my knowledge) that explain the evil savagery behind Columbus Day. A land more vastly populated than Europe itself, was sought after, for gold, spices, and slavery. Puffed up with weapons and disease, Europe made its descent on the Americas.
The gross genocide in the name of manifest destiny, Christianity, kingdom, capitalism, and exploration, took more blood than it left. You know the lie...everything of worth is bought with blood, sweat, and tears. So it goes with Columbus Day. Only the blood, sweat, and tears, came from the millions of Native Americans that were systematically enslaved and killed.
“They do not bear arms, and do not know them. They have no iron. Their spears are made of cane. They would make fine slaves. With fifty men we could subjugate them all and make them do whatever we want.” -Christopher Columbus
May we no longer exalt our sins. May we no longer treat Columbus Day as something to be honored. May we no longer perpetuate the systematic brainwashing of our children and communities.
Instead, may we use this Columbus Day to beg our forgiveness and acknowledge our deep regret!
Father, forgive us...for we knew what atrocities we were doing, and did them anyway, in your name, and under your banner!
With sadness and regret,
Ross
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