At some point in our lives we look back, usually when we start having children of our own, and realize that we wouldn’t be where we are today if not for our parents. While it seems obvious, most of us don’t have the time to pause and acknowledge this. So, to honor parents, a national day of recognition, Parent’s Day, was signed into effect on October 14, 1994.
Many of us are parents or step-parents now, so our recognition is twofold. Parents’ Day causes us to stop to honor the role of a parent, so on this day, we celebrate everyone who is like a parent to us. Whether it’s an aunt or uncle, grandparents, adoptive parents, or biological parents, as long as they take on a role in raising us, this is their day.
To support and celebrate this day annually, the National Parents’ Day Council was formed. Local committees made up of community volunteers were started, and programs and events to celebrate the holiday. The local committees gather nominations for the Parents of the Year Awards hosted in Washington, D.C and followed by a banquet sponsored by the Universal Peace Federation. The award is given to parents who embody parental love, service, and dedication not only within their family but within their local community as well.
Whether you’ve heard of parent’s day or not, the role of a parent is critical in how a child grows up. This Parent’s Day, take a moment to celebrate your parents or those who played that role in your life, and then share how they made a difference with your children. The day is meant to slow us down enough to be present and take stock of the importance, not only of family but of those who make up ours.