Columbus Day now Indigenous Peoples' Day in Seattle

SEATTLE, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- While the rest of the country is celebrating Columbus Day on Monday, Seattle will be holding its first Indigenous Peoples' Day.

The city council voted unanimously to make the change. It will have little practical effect since Columbus Day is not an official holiday in Washington State.

Kshama Sawant, a member of the council, said that Christopher Columbus had a "pivotal role" in the extermination of millions of Native Americans.

"This is about taking a stand against racism and discrimination," she said. "Learning about the history of Columbus and transforming this day into a celebration of indigenous people and a celebration of social justice ... allows us to make a connection between this painful history and the ongoing marginalization, discrimination and poverty that indigenous communities face to this day."

A few Italian-American activists attended Monday's meeting. They were outnumbered by American Indians, who hailed the change.

Matt Remie, a Lakota who lives in Seattle, helped write the resolution.

"It's beautiful to see the people walking out with smiles on their faces. Bringing that good energy and spirit to the people is what this was all about," he said.

But Lisa Marchese, a lawyer, said people of Italian descent are "deeply offended."

"By this resolution you say to all Italian-Americans that the city of Seattle no longer deems your heritage or your community worthy of recognition," she said.