Category: May 01

  • INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ DAY | May 1

    INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ DAY

    May 1 is International Workers’ Day and we are honoring laborers and the working class from every corner of the world. Commonly referred to as Labour Day or May Day in many countries, International Workers’ Day celebrates hard working individuals everywhere. 

    #WORKERSDAY

    As we celebrate International Workers Day we are taking you back in time to learn about how the day came to be. We start our journey in 1760 at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. Inventions such as the railroad, cotton gin, and electricity began to change society. As the Industrial Revolution grew and spread across the glob. Millions of workers were needed to fill positions in factories. Of course, people began to fill positions in hopes to make a better life for their families. Unfortunately, the reality of earning a paycheck became a harsh lesson for many.

    Many employers treated their workers unfairly, forcing their employees to work under poor conditions for little play, not to mention extremely long hours. The working class needed someone to stand up for their rights, as the hardships of employment became unbearable for many.

    In 1864, the International Workingmen’s Association (IWA) in London formed with the intention of fighting for the rights for workers. Their belief was employees should work in safe conditions for good pay and not have to work extremely long hours. In 1871, workers in France were inspired by the work of the International Workingmen’s Association and followed suit, starting their own labor movement. Eventually, the labor movement around the world helped to create a 5-day workweek, paid holidays, and an 8-hour workday. Today, many workers around the world enjoy all the benefits that the labor movement fought so hard for.

    Goals of the IWA

    1. Shorter work hours.
    2. Safer work environment.
    3. Fair wages.
    4. Elimination of child labor.
    5. Ability for the state to regulate labor conditions.

    How Can I Celebrate International Workers’ Day?

    In honor of the working class, many companies around the world observe this day by giving their employees a day off. In addition, many trade unions and labor associations hold parades, rallies, and other kinds of celebrations in honor of their employees.

    Does Every Country Protect Worker rights?

    Unfortunately, many people in some countries are still fighting for workers’ rights, resulting in using International Workers’ Day as a day of protests, marches, and demonstrations. You can help spread awareness about this International Day on social media using with #WorkersDay.

    HISTORY BEHIND INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ DAY

    1. The Federation of Organized Trade and Labour Unions of the U.S. and Canada said May 1, 1886 would mark the beginning of an 8-hour workday in 1884.
    2. On May 1, 1886, up to 500,000 workers in the U.S. went on strike in protesting poor working conditions.
    3. Haymarket Affair happened on May 4, 1886, after the peaceful protest of workers turned violent. As police attempted to break up the protesters, a bomb was thrown at them. Seven police officers died, along with four civilians.
    4. In 1889, an international organization for workers and socialists in Paris declared May 1st as International Workers’ Day. While most countries around the world celebrate on May 1, the U.S. and Canada hold their Labor Day on the first Monday in September.
  • MAY DAY | May 1

    MAY DAY

    May Day ushers in a traditional celebration of flowers and spring. In many ancient calendars, May 1  welcomed the first day of summer, which was truly a cause for celebration.

    #MAYDAY

    May Day has been a traditional day of celebration for centuries, with some of the earliest appearing in pre-Christian times. One of the more popular rituals was harvesting flowers and giving them to neighbors and strangers in cone-shaped baskets. These May Baskets become more commonly known as May Day Baskets. The current tradition is observed by hanging a cone-shaped basket full of flowers or other gifts on the outside doorknob, then knocking or ringing the doorbell and running away.

    What Are A Few May Day Celebrations from Around the World?

    1. In English tradition, the observance is celebrated by crowning a May Queen and dancing around a maypole.
    2. The Finnish recognize a carnival-type celebration in the streets that includes a special type of lemonade made with lemons, brown sugar, and yeast.
    3. In France, it is correct to give people either dogwood or lily of the valley while Italians celebrate with a seasonal feast in honor of the arrival of spring.

    7 WAYS TO CELEBREATE #MayDay

    While there are several ways to celebrate the day, don’t limit yourself to just one. We recommend choosing several of these spring options to celebrate throughout the day.

    1. Dance! Either dance around a May Pole or just dance with someone near to you.
    2. Plant flowers. Make a point of planting wildflowers and you will attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
    3. Make a flower crown. When you’ve finished, wear it or put it on the queen in your life.
    4. Fill a basket with flowers. Then, deliver it to your neighbor, ring the bell, and run!
    5. You can also deliver flower bulbs that your friends and neighbors can plant in their yards.
    6. Make a May Basket. Download this design from our Classroom section to make and fill it with flowers to share.
    7. Share your May Day creations and dance moves on social media using #MayDay.

    BRIEF HISTORY OF MAY DAY

    May Day has ancient roots dating back to Celtic traditions. The spring equinox beckoned the coming of warmer days and called for celebrations filled with rituals that ensured fertile crops and livestock. Many of the practices included dances, songs, flowers, and other traditions lost to time.

  • GLOBAL LOVE DAY | May 1

    GLOBAL LOVE DAY

    They say that love is the universal force that binds us all. With such a powerful impact, it makes sense to dedicate an entire day to all the positive things love brings. Global Love Day on May 1 is a day to remind humanity that anything can be achieved when we attune our minds to the frequency of unconditional love.

    #GlobalLoveDay

    Unconditional love can be described as showing love without boundaries. No matter how many times people may ignore our boundaries and needs, unconditional love approaches every situation with forgiveness and understanding. Love is a force so powerful that inspires the spirit of healing and transformation. By attuning to this frequency, we can turn the tides of anything in the world that is less than love.

    Unconditional love comes in different forms. Whether we show unconditional love to our small circles or share unconditional love on a national level, coming together to promote peace and love is the goal. However, unconditional love means loving ourselves just as much as loving our neighbors. Without inner love, it might not be easy to love those around you. After all, love always begins with you. Once you learn to love everything about yourself, love for those around you comes naturally.

    On Global Love Day, make a conscious effort to show love to yourself. Too many times, we hide and forget to love ourselves because of past trauma, pain, and suffering. These internal feelings prevent us from realizing you are worthy of feeling loved and giving love. Take your power back and stop thinking your circumstances should define you. Now is the time to self-reflect and start making small changes. Embrace your imperfections and accept your mistakes. Changing your thinking patterns will result in changing your view of yourself.

    Each morning when you wake up, spend time training your brain to love yourself. Studies show when you start your day thinking positive thoughts, you begin to feel differently about who you are. You learn to love yourself for all of you imperfections.

    8 Daily Affirmations

    1. I am beautiful.
    2. I forgive myself.
    3. I am perfect just the way I am.
    4. Today, I choose happiness.
    5. I let go of anything that makes me feel unappreciated.
    6. I control how I react to others.
    7. I am grateful for everything I have.
    8. I cannot control how others view me. I can only control how I feel about myself.

    Universal Recognition of Global Love Day Vision

    We are one humanity on this planet.
    All life is interconnected and interdependent.
    All share in the Universal bond of love.
    Love begins with self-acceptance and forgiveness.
    With respect and compassion we embrace diversity.
    Together we make a difference through love.

    The Love Foundation

    10 WAYS TO CELEBRATE #GlobalLoveDay

    1. Give a hug to a friend or family member and say “I love you.”
    2. Compliment a random stranger.
    3. Love yourself by doing something you enjoy.
    4. Volunteer or donate to your favorite charity.
    5. Create a piece of art.
    6. Play music that boosts your mood.
    7. Teach a child to plant a garden.
    8. Put random positive quotes around your home to lift your spirit.
    9. Invite family and friends to a picnic or dinner party.
    10. Share your global love photos and videos on social media using #GlobalLoveDay.

    GLOBAL LOVE DAY HISTORY

    The Love Foundation initially proposed Global Love Day on behalf of its founder Harold Becker in 2004. Using their first theme “Love Begins With Me,” The Love Foundation uses Global Love Day as a platform to promote their non-profit works about spreading love worldwide. Their mission is to build a sound foundation and understanding love for all individuals.

    Today, The Love Foundation is a global family of individuals who have made spreading love their responsibility. There are currently over 300 honorary love ambassadors spanning across 41 countries. Their daily and monthly inspirational messages promote the practice of unconditional love to the masses.

  • SCHOOL PRINCIPALS’ DAY | May 1

    SCHOOL PRINCIPALS’ DAY

    School Principals’ Day on May 1 is your reminder to take time to today and say thank you to the educational leaders who look after your children every day. After all, they guide academic success and set the tone for an entire school.

    #SCHOOLPRINCIPALSDAY

    Principals are some of the hardest working, yet can be the most underappreciated people in the education system. Without them, a school would not operate on a daily basis. They set the academic tone by encouraging students to thrive. They implement their vision through dedication and determination to provide a successful and positive environment for students and teachers.

    Throughout the academic year, school principals’ assume the commitment to lead students to a prosperous future. They support and guide quality teachers and staff, resulting in productive learning environments for our children. Whether they lead an elementary, middle, or high school, a principal shows leadership skills while being approachable. In fact, many students see their principals as role models because they are approachable.

    Teachers rely on principals to ensure the schools provide the necessary equipment and resources. They also rely on principals to counsel and discipline students when needed. However, the role of a principal is not limited to just their office setting. A principal represents the school at community events, including sporting events. They also meet with superintendents and community members for various reasons. School principals prepare reports about staff, the needs of staff and students, and suggestions to help their school operate better. 

    7 WAYS TO CELEBRATE #SchoolPrincipalsDay

    1. Organize an event to thank your principal.
    2. Bring breakfast, coffee, or just a thank card, letting your school principal know you appreciate all their time and patience with the kids and parents.
    3. Give a shout out to a school principal who influenced you during your academic career.
    4. Break out the yearbook and share a photo and let them know how important they were to you.
    5. Volunteer at your school.
    6. Support your school’s extracurricular activities such as band, choir, speech, and athletics.
    7. Use #SchoolPrincipalsDay to share on social media.

    SCHOOL PRINCIPAL’S DAY HISTORY

    Janet Dellaria of Trout Creek, Michigan, founded School Principals’ Day to recognize all the dedicated leaders in schools from elementary through high school.

    Related National Days

    1. National Teacher Appreciation Week | First Monday through Friday in May
    2. World Teachers’ Day | October 5
    3. National Parents as Teachers Day | November 8
  • LAW DAY – May 1

    LAW DAY

    The United States observes Law Day annually on May 1st as a day to encourage all Americans to reflect on the personal rights and liberties which are enjoyed and exercised daily.

    #LAWDAY

    Law Day encourages us to reflect the role of law in the foundation of the country and the importance it has on our society. Today, we are asking Americans to focus on every legal rights laid out in the fundamental documents of American democracy–the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. Both documents uphold the same rights and freedoms for everyone, concluding the courts.

    When is Bill of Rights Day?

    8 #LawDay CELEBRATION IDEAS

    1. Participate in essay writing contests and webinars about the law.
    2. Explore upcoming bills in your state.
    3. Challenge yourself to learn more about how a specific law applies to you.
    4. Expand your awareness of the justice system and how it works.
    5. Learn how laws are developed.
    6. Ask an attorney to speak to your classroom.
    7. Take students to the debate floor of your state legislature.
    8. Share how you celebrate today on social media using #LawDay.

    The American Bar Association receives credit for introducing the idea for Law Day in 1957. In 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed Law Day to be observed each year on May 1. Congress later passed Joint Resolution 87-20 on April 7, 1961.

    May 1st Celebrated History

    1840

    The United Kingdom issued the world’s first adhesive postage stamp called the Penny Black. Sir Rowland Hill first proposed the idea back in 1837 as part of postal reform. At the time, the receiver bore the cost of postage upon delivery, and it could be costly depending on weight and the distance traveled. Fraud was also rampant. The Penny Black cost only a penny (as the name suggests) and the sender paid for the postage at the time of sending. The Penny Black featured a profile image of Queen Victoria. Soon, the idea of pre-paid postage spread around the world and across the pond to the United States.

    1884

    Catcher Moses Fleetwood Walker makes his major league baseball debut with Toledo of the Association League against Louisville. He is one of the first African Americans to play in the major leagues and when he leaves the league several months later, is the last until Jackie Robinson signs with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947.

    1941

    Orson Welles’ award-winning film Citizen Kane premieres in New York City. Welles’ also starred alongside Joseph Cotton and Dorothy Comingore in a story that follows the rise and fall of publishing magnate.

    1971

    Nearly 102 years after the transcontinental railroad was completed, Amtrak begins operation. The National Railroad Passenger Corporation is federally supported and provides intercity passenger train service in the United States.

    May 1st Celebrated Birthday

    Calamity Jane – 1852

    Orphaned at a young age, Martha Jane Cannary grew up to be known as the legendary sharpshooter, Calamity Jane. She earned a notorious reputation in the Wild West of Deadwood, South Dakota, for her drunkenness, lawlessness, and relationships with wanted men, including Wild Bill Hickok. However, most of the stories surrounding her life are unverifiable. Later in her life, she would perform in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show in 1893 and in the 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York.

    Anna Jarvis – 1864

    Anna Jarvis, the founder of Mother’s Day in the United States, created the day to honor and fulfill her own mother’s dream. As a result, the day celebrates mothers all over the country and the world.

    Scott Carpenter – 1925

    A pioneer in space exploration and a member of the Mercury 7 astronauts, Scott Carpenter, became the second American to orbit the Earth. Carpenter left the surface of land behind by being both an astronaut and aquanaut.

    Max Robinson – 1939

    In 1978, Max Robinson became the first African American broadcast network news anchor when he joined the ABC World News Tonight team.

    Judy Collins – 1939

    The American singer-songwriter achieved critical success in the 1960s and 70s with hits such as “Both Sides of Now” and “Send in the Clowns.”

  • SILVER STAR SERVICE BANNER DAY | May 1

    SILVER STAR SERVICE BANNER DAY

    We celebrate Silver Star Service Banner Day on May 1 in recognition for the sacrifices of American service members have made for our country. This day is for Americans to remember service members who have been wounded in combat, are sick, and those who are dying.

    #SILVERSTARSERVICEBANNEDAY

    Across all branches of The U.S. military, the Silver Star Medal is one of the highest honors a soldier can receive. We are using today’s National Day to remind everyone the importance of honoring our military heroes and their families across the country.

    The Silver Star Flag and Banner signifies the symbol of honor for those who have been wounded or incur illness during combat. Many times, the banner or flag is hung in a window of immediate family of an individual service in the military during wartime. Hanging this distinguished flag is a way for families to share they have a loved one currently serving in the military.

    What is the Silver Star Medal?

    According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the Silver Star Medal is the third highest medal a member of the Armed Forces can receive for gallant action during combat. The U.S. Army normally awards the distinguished medal as the “Silver Star,” while the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard award the medal as the “Silver Star Medal.” All branches of military give the award as a result of action against an enemy of the U.S. during conflict over a short period of time, normally one or two days.

    Actions that merit the Silver Star must be of such a high degree that they are above those required for all other U.S. combat decorations but do not merit award of the meet Medal of Honor or a Service Cross (Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, or the Air Force Cross).

    U.S. Department of Defense

    What Does the Silver Star Medal Look Like?

    1. The metal is a gold star with five points and 1-1/2 inch in diameter.
    2. The medal contains a laurel wreath encircling rays of sunshine around the center.
    3. A second smaller silver star is found within the laurel wreath in the center of the medal.
    4. The back of the medal is unscripted with “For Gallantry in Action.”
    5. Attached to medal is a white and blue ribbon measuring 5.6 mm wide.

    President Woodrow Wilson established the Silver Star Medal as the “Citation Star” during WWI. At the time, the medal was given only to U.S. Army service members who distinguished themselves during military operations.

    HONORING #SILVERSTARSERVICEBANNEDAY

    1. Attend a local veteran organization or military base event honoring Silver Star personnel and families.
    2. Display your Silver Star Service Banner outside your home or business.
    3. Volunteer to help at a local event honoring Silver Star recipients.
    4. Show gratitude and thank all service members for their contributions to protect our nation.
    5. Help with fundraising events held by Silver Star Families of America.
    6. Share photos, stories, and support by using #SilverStarService on social media.

    BRIEF HISTORY

    The Blue and Gold Service Banners made their debuts in 1918 during World War I. Over time, the U.S. formally adopted and officially made the Blue and Gold Star Service Banners. However, the country overlooked Silver Star Service Banner. Once identified, representatives quickly designed and accepted The Silver Star Service Flag and Banner. The U.S. House of Representatives passed H Res. 855, a stand-alone resolution, on April 21, 2010, designating May 1 as Silver Star Service Banner Day.

    Since 1818, the military awarded the Citation Star for “Gallantry in Action.” The Silver Star Medal replaced the Citation Star and first officially awarded it in 1942. Military personnel receive the Silver Star Medal for specific actions in combat. The military has awarded between 100,000 and 150,000 Silver Star Medals.

  • MELANOMA MONDAY | First Monday in May

    MELANOMA MONDAY

    Melanoma Monday is a part of an awareness campaign during National Melanoma Month . Each year on the first Monday in May, we are raising awareness about skin cancer in hopes of reducing melanoma diagnosis.

    #MELANOMAMONDAY

    Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. On Melanoma Monday we are spreading the word about skin health, sun safety, tanning prevention, and skin cancer screenings. While melanoma and other skin cancers are not 100% preventable, there are ways to reduce your risk. We are on a mission to provide resources and information to bring awareness to melanoma, and hopefully reduce the number of melanoma diagnosis.

    Tips to Reduce Skin Cancer Risks

    1. Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from harmful UV rays and remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day.
    2. Cover up by wearing a broad-brimmed hat, long sleeves, and pants when planning to be in the sun for an extended period of time.
    3. Finding shade under trees, umbrellas, and awnings provides excellent sun protection on warm sunny days.
    4. Protecting your skin against UV rays on a cloudy days is important, too. Lack of sun does not mean lack of UV rays.
    5. Avoid tanning beds. UV light in tanning beds puts you at a higher risk for melanoma.
    6. Check your skin regularly for abnormal moles or other skin abnormalities. If you notice changes, see your doctor to have it checked.

    As of 2023, the American Cancer Society estimates almost 98,000 people will receive a new diagnosis for melanoma. Unfortunately, around 8,000 people are expected to die from the disease. Thankfully, mortality rates have declined over the past decade. Advancements in treatment and technology both attribute to the success rate of catching and treating melanoma.

    Prevention

    Anyone is at risk of getting melanoma. However, the disease seems to be more common in Caucasians versus Blacks. One out of 38 Caucasians will be diagnosed with melanoma in their lifetime, which is significantly higher than 1 out of 1,000 Blacks. Specific risk factors, such as fair skin tone, freckles, and light hair all contribute to a melanoma skin cancer diagnosis.

    You may have a higher risk of melanoma if you have a parent, sibling, or child who has already had melanoma. Knowing your family medical history is an important step in prevention. Family history helps your doctor look for signs of possible melanoma that you may miss. The best prevention is regular skin exams with your doctor and performing monthly exams on your own.

    Age also increases the risk of melanoma. On average, people 65 and over are diagnosed with melanoma more often. However, melanoma is commonly found in people younger than 30, especially in women.

    SUPPORT #MelanomaMonday

    1. Join the American Academy of Dermatology in wearing orange for skin cancer awareness.
    2. Encourage others to wear orange for skin cancer awareness.
    3. Offer to help a skin cancer patient with chores or errands.
    4. Learn about melanoma and skin screenings.
    5. Use #MelanomaMonday to post on social media.

    MELANOMA MONDAY HISTORY

    The American Academy of Dermatology founded National Melanoma Monday to raise awareness about melanoma. By promoting prevention resources ahead of the summer months, the Academy hopes to improve prevention and increase screening. For more information on prevention and screening visit www.melanomaknowmore.com.

  • NATIONAL CHOCOLATE PARFAIT DAY | May 1

    NATIONAL CHOCOLATE PARFAIT DAY

    We have a hard time resisting a sweet celebration for National Chocolate Parfait Day on May 1. The delicious layers of chocolate, cream, and more chocolate sweetly stacked together is enough to make us skip lunch and go straight to dessert.

    #CHOCOLATEPARFAITDAY

    Enjoying a delicious chocolate parfait on May 1 would be the perfect way to end your day, or start it. We will leave that up to you to decide. We simply provide you with an opportunity to indulge on the scrumptious food holiday.

    In French, the word parfait means perfect. French and Americans, however, have a differing opinions on what a parfait really is. The traditional French parfait is made by boiling cream, adding egg, sugar and syrup then creating a custard-type puree, which is then frozen. Americans, on the other hand, layer ingredients of differing varieties. Both French and Americans use a clear, tall glass when serving a chocolate parfait.

    While National Chocolate Parfait Day focuses on the chocolate parfait, that does not mean you cannot experiment with other fresh flavors. For example, fresh fruit and cream go quite well with chocolate. You can top can add other ingredients, such as pretzels or cookie bits. The options are limitless and can only be hindered by by your imagination.

    Some people may consider a chocolate parfait a comfort food. Though a parfait can be made into a healthy food, today is about indulging and treating yourself with a chocolate parfait! We will, however meet the healthy people half way by recommending adding strawberries or raspberries to your parfait.

    PARFAIT CELEBRATION

    1. Enjoy your version of a chocolate parfait today with family and friends.
    2. Create a chocolate parfait bar with a variety of ingredients to all everyone to build their own parfait.
    3. Share your photos and recipes on social media using #ChocolateParfaitDay.

    NATIONAL CHOCOLATE PARFAIT DAY HISTORY

    We were unable to find the creator of this fun food holiday.  Our research did find this scrumptious dessert dates back to 1894 and seems to have originated in France.  

    National Day Calendar Parfait Recipes

    Other Related National Days:

  • NATIONAL MOTHER GOOSE DAY | May 1

    NATIONAL MOTHER GOOSE DAY

    National Mother Goose Day on May 1 honors the imaginary author of a collection of fairy tales and nursery rhymes we loved as children. Most of us remember Mother Goose as an elderly countrywoman in a tall hat and shawl, but she is sometimes seen as a goose wearing a bonnet.

    #NATIONALMOTHERGOOSEDAY

    Charles Perrault is said to be the initiator of the fairy tale genre after publishing his fairy tale collection in 1695. His publication marks the first authenticated starting-point for the Mother Goose stories. An English version of Perrault’s collection appeared in 1729: Robert Samber’s Histories or Tales of Past Times, Told by Mother Goose. These fairy tales introduced Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood, Puss in Boots, Cinderella, and others. Mother Goose’s Melody, a book of poems for children, was first published in 1781 and has been enjoyed by billions since.

    Was Mother Goose Real?

    The true identity of Mother Goose is a great debate among historians. Some people believe Mother Goose dates back to before the 10th century during the reign of King Robert II. Legend says his wife often told exaggerated tales to keep the interest of children.

    In American culture, Mother Goose was a woman who lived in Boston some time during the late 17th century. Elizabeth Foster Goose, or maybe Mary Goose, was the wife of Isaac Goose. After becoming a widow, she moved in with her oldest daughter. She spent most of her time with her grandchildren often singing catchy jingles to them. Her singing became so popular, neighborhood children would stop to hear her. Urban legend says her publisher son-in-law decided to print the rhymes, and the rest is.

    NOSTOLGIC CELEBRATION

    1. Revisit those wonderful childhood stories of with your children or grandchildren.
    2. Volunteer to read at your local library.
    3. Download our Mother Goose coloring page and relax while coloring.
    4. If you grandkids live away from you, record yourself reciting Mother Goose nursery rhymes and send the video to them.
    5. Share your favorite Mother Goose story on social media using #NationalMotherGooseDay.

    HISTORY OF NATIONAL MOTHER GOOSE DAY

    In 1987, Gloria T. Delamar in tandem with the publication of her book, Mother Goose; From Nursery to Literature founded Mother Goose Day. 

  • NATIONAL LOYALTY DAY | May 1

    NATIONAL LOYALTY DAY

    Our message on May 1 is about recognizing our freedom as Americans and the loyalty we have to our country on National Loyalty Day. This National Day reminds us to honor our American heritage and the freedoms we have.

    #NATIONALLOYALTYDAY

    Since 1955, every U.S. President has proclaimed May 1 as a day to call on Americans to raise their flags, pray, and reflect on their heritage. The message of National Loyalty Day speaks of loyalty and freedom in equal measure, especially those who serve in the military.  And while the messages may stray some in agreement on other topics, the central messages remains the same.

    Historically, May 1 was a day of recognition “Americanization Day” by the American Labor Party Movement. The name was meant to reaffirm American freedom and heritage. However, at the time, many people thought the movement was influenced by communism and anarchism. In certain parts of the world, labor movements were in fact created by socialist and communist parties. Because of this fear, Americanization Day was switched to Loyalty Day.

    Loyalty to the country always. Loyalty to the government when it deserves it.

    Mark Twain

    8 WAYS SHOW YOUR LOYALTY

    1. Participate in civic events.
    2. Take part in the political process.
    3. Educate yourself on local, state, and national issues.
    4. Exercise your right to vote.
    5. Attend veteran events and memorial ceremonies.
    6. Learn about your heritage.
    7. Organize an event.
    8. Show your loyalty for American freedom on social media using #NationalLoyaltyDay.

    NATIONAL LOYALTY DAY HISTORY

    First observed in 1921 as Americanization Day, National Loyalty Day counterbalanced the Communist celebration of Labor Day on May Day. On July 18, 1958, U.S. Congress (Public Law 85-529) made the day an official holiday. President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed May 1, 1959, the first official observance of Loyalty Day. Each year since its inception as a legal holiday in 1958, every President has recognized the day with an official proclamation.