Purple Up Day is observed every year on April 15. The holiday was selected during the Month of the Military Child. It is an opportunity to honor military children from all branches of the military. Military children across the country play a significant role in their schools, youth organizations, and communities. The University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Military Youth and Family Program established Purple Up Day as a way to support them. It lets them know that they are recognized and appreciated in society. They make many sacrifices to make sure the country is safe. So deck yourself out in purple to recognize them.
History of Purple Up Day
Purple Up Day was established by the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Military Youth and Family Program. It was set to be observed every year on April 15. It was selected in April, the month of the Military Child. The holiday is a great opportunity to honor and appreciate military families and their children for the sacrifices they make and the challenges they overcome. It is sponsored by the Department of Defense Military Community and Family Policy. The month dedicated to the military child is a part of the legacy that was left by former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger. In 1986, he established the Defense Department commemoration.It is important that we establish an educational system for all military children. They should be able to progressively build their college and career readiness. A unified school system needs to be established, so the organization can operate more effectively and efficiently as a model. Every student needs to be challenged to maximize his or her potential. They would be able to excel academically, socially, emotionally, and physically for life.Schools around the country are encouraged to plan special events to honor military children. Administrators and principals can easily incorporate the themes of the holiday into their everyday duties and responsibilities. The children need to understand that they are appreciated, and that they can get the support they need. They are able to get a good education and acquire the skills they need to be their best selves.
Purple Up Day timeline
April is chosen as the Month of the Military Child.
The former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger establishes the Defense Department commemoration
The University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Military Youth and Family Program starts the initiative to support military kids.
About two million military kids experience a parental deployment since 9/11.
Purple Up Day FAQs
Who takes part in Purple Up Day?
Individuals, schools, and organizations across the country participate in Purple Up Day.
Which branches of the military are included?
All branches of the military are included in the initiative including; the Navy, Air Force, Marine, Army, Coast Guard, and Space Force.
Does Purple Up Day lead to unity?
The special holiday is all about inclusion and making sure that every child from every branch of the military receives adequate support.
Purple Up Day Activities
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Recognize military children
Take the time to recognize and appreciate any military children you know. Knowing they are supported makes a huge difference.
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Wear purple
You can wear purple as a way to show support for military kids. It is an easy way to participate in the holiday.
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Listen to military personnel
You can listen to a speech or have a one-on-one conversation with a military member. They usually have many inspiring stories to tell.
5 Important Facts About Military Children
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There are many military kids
It is estimated that over two million children have one or two parents serving in the military.
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They move a lot
Military kids typically have to move a lot due to deployments by their parents during their K-12 educational years.
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They know the risks
Military kids are usually aware that their parents are required to perform in high-risk situations
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They’re usually away from their parents
Military personnel members are typically far from home and children for lengthy periods of time.
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They attend public school
About 80% of military children in the United States attend public schools.
Why We Love Purple Up Day
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It supports military children
Military children have the opportunity to be heard and appreciated. They can get access to any support they may need to succeed.
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It improves education
The aim of Purple Up Day is to make sure military children have access to good education. They are supported to make sure they can have successful careers.
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It raises awareness
The holiday helps to spread useful information about the issues faced by military children. This awareness leads to conversations that provide solutions.
Purple Up Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 15 | Saturday |
| 2024 | April 15 | Monday |
| 2025 | April 15 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 15 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 15 | Thursday |
