May 1 - National Loyalty Day

Happy National Loyalty Day! On May 1, this day recognizes American freedom and is set aside for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States and the recognition of the heritage of American freedom. 

  

Every U.S. President since 1955 has set the day for May 1. 

Whether they call for Americans to raise the flags, pray, or reflect on their heritage, each of them recognizes an inherent need for the country to be united in our basic ideals.  

  

Their messages speak 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 remain the same. 

  

"Loyalty to the country always. Loyalty to the government when it deserves it." ~ Mark Twain 

  

HOW TO OBSERVE 

  

You can participate in the day in several ways.  

• 
  • Participate in civic events 
• • Take part in the political process 
• • Educate yourself on local, state and national issues 
• • Exercise your right to vote 
• • Attend veteran events and memorial ceremonies 
• • Learn about your heritage 
• • Organize an event 

Use #NationalLoyaltyDay to show your loyalty to American freedom. 

HISTORY 

First observed in 1921 as Americanization Day, the holiday 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. 

34th U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed May 1, 1959 to be the first official observance of Loyalty Day.  

Each year since its inception as a legal holiday in 1958, every U.S. President has recognized the day with an official proclamation. 

#NationalLoyaltyDay 

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