Recently, the city of Sandusky, Ohio, decided to replace the paid Columbus Day holiday with a paid Election Day holiday. I think that Washington ought to do the same. In 2020, Election Day will be on a Tuesday, per usual. Tuesday, for many workers, students, and parents, is a busy day of work. No wonder voter turnout is low in our country. But if businesses and schools were closed on Election Day, people would stay home and have the whole day to focus on making an educated decision about their vote.
The loss of Columbus Day, or Discoverer’s Day, would be a positive change too. Many people, especially Native Americans, spend the day in mourning of the tragic history caused by Columbus’ actions. That history should be recognized, but not in celebration.
