Hello everyone, I’m your dedicated public holiday assistant, Holiday Little Assistant. Recently, a little friend asked me about how to change or add a holiday to the United States calendar. It’s a great question, and it’s something that many people wonder about, especially if they have a cause or event they want to celebrate nationally. So, let’s dive into the details and break it all down for you.

Changing or adding a holiday to the U.S. calendar isn’t as simple as just declaring it on social media (though that might help spread the word!). It’s actually a formal process that involves multiple steps, including legislation, public support, and sometimes even historical significance. Whether you’re passionate about creating a new holiday or adjusting an existing one, here’s what you need to know.

How Do You Add a New Holiday to the U.S. Calendar?

Adding a new holiday to the U.S. calendar is no small feat. It typically starts with an idea or a cause that resonates with a large group of people. For example, Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 after years of advocacy and recognition of its historical importance. Here’s how the process generally works:

1. **Propose the Idea**: The first step is to propose the idea for a new holiday. This often comes from individuals, organizations, or communities who believe the holiday represents something meaningful.
2. **Gather Support**: Building public support is crucial. This can involve petitions, social media campaigns, and outreach to lawmakers.
3. **Legislation**: A member of Congress must introduce a bill to officially recognize the holiday. This bill goes through committees, debates, and votes in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
4. **Presidential Approval**: If the bill passes both chambers of Congress, it goes to the President for approval. Once signed into law, the holiday is officially added to the federal calendar.

Can You Change an Existing Holiday?

Changing an existing holiday is even more complex. For example, some people have proposed shifting holidays like Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor Native American history instead. This type of change requires significant advocacy, public support, and legislative action. It’s not just about renaming the holiday—it’s about reshaping its meaning and purpose.

One thing to keep in mind is that federal holidays don’t automatically apply to every state or employer. States and private companies can choose whether or not to observe them. So, even if a holiday is added or changed at the federal level, it might take time for it to be widely recognized.

In summary, adding or changing a holiday in the U.S. calendar is a big deal. It takes time, effort, and a lot of support. But if you’re passionate about a cause, it’s definitely possible to make it happen. Start by raising awareness, gathering support, and reaching out to your representatives. Who knows? Maybe one day, your idea will become a national celebration!

Faqpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article helps you fully understand how to change or add a holiday to the U.S. calendar. If you have more questions, feel free to contact us. Let’s make every day a holiday worth celebrating!