119-HRES-809 Journalist Public Summary
A bipartisan House resolution introduced on October 14, 2025 supports recognizing the second Monday in October 2025 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day and urges eventual federal–holiday status; it signals the House’s position but doesn’t itself change federal holidays.
Headline Summary
A bipartisan House resolution backs recognizing the second Monday in October 2025 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day and supports making it a future federal holiday.
What It Does
H. Res. 809 expresses the House of Representatives’ support for celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day on the second Monday of October 2025 (October 13, 2025). It honors Indigenous peoples’ history and contributions, encourages public observance with ceremonies and educational activities, and states support for designating Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday in the future.
Who’s For It
- Sponsors: Rep. Norma Torres (D‑CA), with Rep. Tom Cole (R‑OK) and Rep. Sharice Davids (D‑KS).
- Supportive lawmakers and many tribal advocates say the day centers Indigenous history, resilience, and contributions.
- Some local and state governments that already mark Indigenous Peoples’ Day generally favor national recognition for consistency and visibility.
Who’s Against It
- Some opponents prefer maintaining Columbus Day as the focus of the second Monday in October, citing tradition and cultural heritage.
- Others are wary of adding or shifting federal holidays, noting potential costs or disruption.
- A few argue that observances should remain a state or local choice rather than be recognized nationally.
What’s Next
Introduced on October 14, 2025 and referred to the House Natural Resources Committee, the resolution could receive a hearing or vote. If adopted by the House, it would formally state the chamber’s support; no Senate or presidential action is required for a simple House resolution.
Discussion