Parents' Day
Parents' Day, observed on the fourth Sunday of every July, is a national observance dedicated to honor parents and their love for their children.
While it is not a public holiday, it gives us an opportunity to reflect on the role parents' play in our lives and express our gratitude towards them.
Parents' Day recognizes the care and commitment parents provide to their children. It also encourages families to celebrate the love and dedication involved in raising children.
Ever since its introduction in 1994, parents' Day has grown significantly and is now celebrated globally. For instance, South Korea has observed parents' Day on May 8 since 1973, where children often present their parents with carnations. In India, the day is marked with special events and family gatherings to honor and appreciate parents. The UK also recognizes this day, reflecting its universal importance.
History of Parents' Day
In 1994, President Bill Clinton introduced parents' Day into law (36 USC § 135), signing a congressional resolution for “recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in the rearing of children.” Chester Trent Lott Sr, former US Senator, was the one who proposed this bill. Although Mother's Day and Father's Day were celebrated, the President believed it was necessary to commemorate a day dedicated to both parents.
The first parents' Day was officially observed in the following year on July 28, 1995. According to the National Parents' Day website, “The greatest work of any individual, rich or poor, black or white, when it comes down to the evening of their life, is their children and grandchildren, the work of being a parent.”
Parents' Day Celebration
Children show love and appreciation for their parents by hosting family meals and giving personalized gifts. Some gift ideas include photo albums, flower bouquets, handmade cards, handmade dishes, food coupons, spa coupons, and so on.
All parents truly want is to spend time with their children. Thus, on this year's parents' Day, do their favorite activities with them such as watching movies, having a picnic, going on a weekend getaway, and organizing a karaoke night.
On this day, local Parents' Day Committees organize programs in order to award outstanding parents, 'Parents of the Year'. There are also state-level award ceremonies that take place at an annual banquet in Washington, D.C. Nominees from each state, in turn, are put forward for National Parents of the Year awards.
In recent years, parents' Day has been used for rallies and proclamations about family life by civil rights activists.
If you cannot be together with your family, celebrate virtually. You can organize a video call where everyone shares their favorite memories, play games, or watch a movie together.
These activities would help blur the distance and create a sense of togetherness. Furthermore, exchanging digital gift cards or planning an in-person visit in future can express your gratitude and develop a stronger bond.
You can share your pictures of the celebration and stories with the hashtag #ParentsDay and #NationalParentsDay on social media.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you will also like reading about Global Day of Parents, celebrated on June 1.
