John W. Hart is professor of Christian ethics at Boston University’s School of Theology and has expertise in American Indians and North American indigenous religions. He has also written several books about Christian environmental theology

Thomas J. Carty is an assistant professor of American studies and history and chair of the Social Sciences Department at Springfield College in Springfield, Mass. He specializes in U.S. religion and politics and is the author of A Catholic in the White House? Religion, Politics and John F. Kennedy’s Presidential Campaign.

The National Italian American Foundation lists Columbus monuments nationwide.

The National Columbus Celebration Association celebrates his historic achievement and his values, which it lists as faith, the courage of his convictions, dedication to purpose, perseverance in effort, professional excellence, and boldness in facing the unknown. It posts articles about the explorer. It’s based in Washington, D.C., where it sponsors celebrations.

Carolyn Chen is an associate professor in the ethnic studies department at the University of California, Berkeley, whose research interests include religion, ethnicity, immigration and sociology of work.

Dona De Sanctis resigned in 2007 from deputy executive director of the Order Sons of Italy in America, which does not support changing the name of the federal holiday. She is editor-in-chief of Italian America magazine and researches Italian American history and achievements.

Bernard McGinn is Naomi Shenstone Donnelley Professor Emeritus of Historical Theology and of the History of Christianity in the Divinity School and the Committees on Medieval Studies and on General Studies. Read his thoughts about how Columbus was on an apocalyptic mission, from the PBS show Frontline.

The Indigenous Peoples Day Committee is based in Berkeley, Calif. Contact committee coordinator Rochelle Hays.

Suzan Shown Harjo, who is Cheyenne and Hodulgee Muscogee, is president of the Morning Star Institute, a national Indian rights organization. She helps Native Americans regain the land that was taken from them, and preserved many sacred places.