December 28th is indeed Pledge of Allegiance Day in the United States. It commemorates the date in 1945 when Congress officially recognized the Pledge of Allegiance as part of the United States Flag Code.
- Related: National Tim Day
History of Pledge of Allegiance Day
Origins: The Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy. It was initially published in a children’s magazine, “The Youth’s Companion,” as part of a campaign to promote patriotism and national unity.
Evolution Over Time: Over the years, the Pledge has seen some changes. The most notable one is the addition of the phrase “under God” in 1954, emphasizing the nation’s religious heritage.
In 1885, Colonel George Balch, a seasoned veteran of the Civil War, crafted a version of the Pledge of Allegiance. However, this initial rendition diverges markedly from the version commonly recited in educational settings today.
A pivotal moment in its evolution came in 1892 when Francis Bellamy, an editorial luminary at “The Youth’s Companion”, was tasked with composing a patriotic ode to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s inaugural footsteps on American soil.
Bellamy, a man whose past included roles as both a Baptist cleric and an advocate for Christian socialist ideals, drew inspiration from the Gallic principles of “Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity” during his creative process. The resultant composition closely mirrors today’s school rendition, though notably absent the phrase “under God” — a point we shall elucidate shortly.
As the late 19th century bled into the early 20th, Balch’s version faded into obscurity, supplanted by Bellamy’s. While minor textual adjustments occurred, the core essence persisted. For instance, the contemporary recitation commences with “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America,” a formulation not always prevalent.
The addition of “of the United States of America” was ratified by the National Flag Conference in both 1923 and 1924. It wasn’t until 1942 that Congress officially embraced the Pledge, stipulating its recitation with the right hand placed resolutely over the heart.
1954 marked a pivotal juncture, with President Eisenhower urging Congress to infuse the text with the provocative phrase “under God”, aiming to demarcate the American ethos amidst Cold War tensions. The educational mandate for children to voice the pledge, even devoid of its religious connotation, has spurred considerable contention.
A 1940 edict compelling allegiance was promptly nullified by a subsequent 1943 adjudication. The Jehovah’s Witnesses, during the tumultuous 1930s and 1940s, posed formidable resistance to this mandatory affirmation, decrying it as a sacrilegious act against their faith.
Fast-forwarding to 2004, a judicial pronouncement granted children the prerogative to refrain from standing during the pledge. This decree emanated from a 2002 Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals litigation wherein an avowed atheist contested the pledge’s constitutional integrity due to its perceived monotheistic bias.
The years spanning 2006 to 2015 witnessed a flurry of legal challenges, with over five consequential cases either contesting or tangentially related to the contentious “under God” clause. The most recent 2015 adjudication, intriguingly, affirmed the phrase’s compatibility with secular principles.
How to Observe Pledge of Allegiance Day
- Participate in a flag-raising ceremony: Many municipalities and organizations hold flag-raising ceremonies on Pledge of Allegiance Day. Attend one of these to witness the raising of the flag and recite the Pledge with others.
- Visit a historical site: Some museums and historical societies have special events or exhibits around Pledge of Allegiance Day. Consider visiting one to learn more about the history of the Pledge and its significance.
- Host a community event: Organize a potluck dinner, a community singalong, or another gathering where people can come together and reflect on the meaning of the Pledge.
- Recite the Pledge of Allegiance: Take a moment to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at home, at work, or wherever you happen to be. You can do this by yourself or join others in a group recital.
- Learn about the history of the Pledge: Take some time to research the Pledge’s origin, its evolution over time, and the controversies surrounding it. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of its significance.
5 Facts About THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
- It was originally intended to be a part of a Columbus Day celebration.
- The Pledge underwent several modifications before its final version.
- It’s recited daily by millions of school children across the U.S.
- Some states have laws requiring schools to recite the Pledge.
- The Pledge’s author, Francis Bellamy, was a Christian socialist.
Pledge of Allegiance Day Quotes, Wishes, and Messages
“May the values of unity and freedom always shine bright. Celebrating Pledge of Allegiance Day!”
“Here’s to the red, white, and blue – symbols of our unity and strength. Happy Pledge of Allegiance Day!”
“Let’s honor our flag and the principles it represents. Happy Pledge of Allegiance Day!”
“Proud to be an American, proud to pledge allegiance. Wishing everyone a meaningful Pledge of Allegiance Day!”
“Land of the free, home of the brave. Celebrating Pledge of Allegiance Day with pride!”
“May we always remember the sacrifices made for our freedom. Happy Pledge of Allegiance Day!”
“In unity, there is strength. Celebrate Pledge of Allegiance Day with pride and unity!”
“Here’s to the stars and stripes, symbols of our nation’s pride. Happy Pledge of Allegiance Day!”
Pledge of Allegiance Day Importance
- Patriotism and Unity: The Pledge serves as a unifying symbol, fostering a sense of national pride and shared identity among Americans. Reciting it together reminds us of the common values and ideals that bind us as a nation.
- Historical Significance: The Pledge’s evolution reflects the nation’s own journey. Adopted in 1892, its wording has been amended to reflect changing demographics and societal values, offering a glimpse into American history and cultural shifts.
- Civic Engagement: Discussing the Pledge’s meaning and implications encourages critical thinking and civic engagement. It sparks conversations about patriotism, inclusivity, and the role of citizens in a democracy.
- Educational Tool: Learning about the Pledge can be an engaging way to introduce students to American history and government. It provides a tangible connection to abstract concepts like citizenship and national identity.
Pledge of Allegiance Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2023 | December 28 | Thursday |
| 2024 | December 28 | Saturday |
| 2025 | December 28 | Sunday |
| 2026 | December 28 | Monday |
| 2027 | December 28 | Tuesday |
FAQs
What is Pledge of Allegiance Day?
Pledge of Allegiance Day is a day set aside to honor and commemorate the Pledge of Allegiance, a symbol of national unity and pride.
When is Pledge of Allegiance Day?
Pledge of Allegiance Day is observed annually on December 28th.
Conclusion
Pledge of Allegiance Day is more than just a date; it’s a testament to our nation’s values and ideals. As we reflect on its significance, let’s remember the importance of unity, freedom, and patriotism.