On February 1st, take a moment to celebrate National Freedom Day! This day was created to recognize the freedoms that we, as citizens of the United States, are fortunate to enjoy. It was established in commemoration of the day that President Abraham Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the country. This amendment is an integral part of our nation’s history, and serves as a reminder of the importance of freedom. Let us never forget how fortunate we are to live in such a country, and we should always be grateful for the rights we have as citizens. Let freedom ring!
National Freedom Day timeline
The Declaration of Independence was adopted, with Thomas Jefferson asserting that 'all men are created equal and are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights.'
The first ringing of the Liberty Bell was heard coming from the tower of Independence Hall.
The Bill of Rights was ratified on December 15, 1791. It guarantees the basic civil rights and liberties of individuals, including freedom of speech, religion, and the press; the right to assemble and petition the government; the right to keep and bear arms; the right to a fair and speedy trial; and protection from unreasonable searches and seizures.
On December 18th, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln signed the resolution proposing to outlaw slavery by ratifying the 13th Amendment of the country’s Constitution. The Amendment was ratified by the necessary three-fourths of the states on December 6th, and was officially adopted into the Constitution on December 18th. This Amendment abolished slavery in the United States, and set a course for the country to begin the process of healing and reconciliation.
National Freedom Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Richard Robert Wright Senior, the creator of National Freedom Day and the founder of the National Freedom Day Association in 1941, passed away one year prior to the day being officially recognized.
On February 1, President Harry Truman issued a proclamation declaring February 1 to be the official National Freedom Day in the United States.
President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law, prohibiting segregation of public and private spaces and discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin, or religion.
How to Observe National Freedom Day
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Share the freedoms you most appreciate on social media
What freedoms do you appreciate the most? What kind of wave can you create with your friends by spreading awareness of those freedoms? Share your ideas and start a purposeful movement among your friends with a hashtag or a thought-provoking question. See what kind of impact you can make!
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Dive into a Civil War history or a biography
To gain insight into the Civil War and the emancipation of slaves that led to the founding of National Freedom Day, consider reading a new book or watching a movie or documentary. Doing so may help you to appreciate the liberties you currently enjoy.
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Start a discussion group
Organize a relaxed get-together and explore what freedom means to those in attendance. Discover the various interpretations of freedom through everyone's individual stories. Hearing about the freedoms each person values will broaden your outlook and appreciation for the freedoms you may have not previously considered.
Why National Freedom Day is Important
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It keeps us rooted in what matters
In 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed a law into effect that was proposed by Major Richard Robert Wright, Sr., a former slave, to create a national holiday to celebrate the freedom of all Americans. To this day, the observance of this holiday serves as a reminder of the unique privilege and blessing of living in a nation that has long recognized freedom.
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It marks the first day of Black History Month
We kick off Black History Month with a celebration of the freedoms African Americans have fought for and earned throughout our history. Let us take this month to recognize the incredible contributions African Americans have made to our culture, country and the world. As we appreciate their accomplishments, we can be proud of the progress we have made and inspired to continue striving for equality.
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It’s a day of appreciation
On National Freedom Day, let us take the time to reflect on and appreciate all the freedoms we have. We should be thankful for the ability to speak our minds, practice our religion, and live our lives in a way that is true to our beliefs. Let us cherish these freedoms and look for ways to promote fairness and equality.
National Freedom Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | February 1 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | February 1 | Thursday |
| 2025 | February 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
