Every year, we celebrate National Grandparents Day on the first Sunday after Labor day. This year, it’s today — September 12.
Grandparent’s Day is a lot like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, except the people are a lot older.
In keeping with my tradition of making you a more informed reader when you follow this blog, let’s talk a bit about Grandparent’s Day.
In 1969, nine-year old Russell Capper sent President Nixon a letter suggesting that a day should be set aside in order to celebrate grandparents. On June 12, 1969, he received a letter from Rose Mary Woods, the Personal Secretary to the President, reading:
“Dear Russell, Thank you for your letter to President Nixon. Your suggestion regarding a Grandparent’s Day is appreciated, but the President ordinarily issues proclamations designating periods for special observance only when a Congressional resolution authorizes him to do so. With best wishes, Sincerely, Rose May Woods Personal Secretary to the President.”
Following this letter, Marian McQuade was recognized nationally by the U.S. Senate and by President Jimmy Carter as the founder of National Grandparent’s Day. McQuade wanted to educate the youth about the importance of seniors and the contributions they have made throughout history. She urged the youth to “adopt” a grandparent and learn more about their lives, challenges, and desires for the future.
In 1977, Senator Randolph, from West Virginia, with the help of other senators introduced a proclamation designating the first Sunday of September after Labor Day of each year as “National Grandparent’s Day.” Congress passed the legislation on August 3, 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed the proclamation, and the day was finally celebrated the following year.
Even though it was signed in as a national holiday it is celebrated more as an observance than a public holiday.
But today is our day and we’ve earned it because you know only the best parents get promoted to grandparents….
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