Is Presidents' Day the New Columbus Day?

The celebration of America's presidents is so folded into cultural lexicon that it almost goes unnoticed. Currency, schools and airports, awards, all bear the names and legacies of our highest officials. Presidents' Day, originally erected to honor President George Washington's birthday, is perhaps the most obvious example of our adoration. Yet, within this context, it is often easy to overlook the nefarious histories of our leaders, including those that involve slavery.   

In "George Washington, Slave Catcher", Professor Erica Dunbar examines the relationship between President Washington and the individuals he enslaved. Dunbar is not the first to expose the realities of Washington's history with slavery. Actress Azie Mira Dungey created Ask A Slave, a comedic web series focusing on the perspective of Lizzie Mae, housemaid to George and Martha Washington. Dunbar's easy and Dungey's series provides an alternative perspective to Washington that is often overlooked in traditional history lessons.      

 

Just like Columbus Day, Presidents' Day has served as a day to honor, but not truly expose the complicated histories of so-called American heroes.

Why do we overlook certain aspects of U.S. presidents? If we condemn slavery as morally wrong, then why do we honor those complicit in the institution? How can we create a complete history curriculum where U.S. presidents are both remembered and critically examined?