WHEREAS
, In 1970, a West Virginia housewife, Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade, initiated a campaign to set aside a special day just for Grandparents; and
WHEREAS
, In 1978, five years after its West Virginia inception, the United States Congress passed legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as
National Grandparents Day
, and the proclamation was signed by President Jimmy Carter; and
WHEREAS
, September was chosen for the holiday, to signify the "autumn years" of life. Today this event, begun by only a few, is observed by millions throughout the United States; and
WHEREAS
, Grandparents Day is a family day – schools, churches, and senior organizations honor grandparents with special events; and
WHEREAS
, As Grandparents Day approaches, help Children and/or Grandchildren to identify and date all photos in old family albums, since many happy memories can be derived from this; and
WHEREAS
, Everyone is a grandchild and can be involved in the observance of this day - a time to discover one's roots and learn patience, understanding and appreciation for the elderly; and
WHEREAS
, Old family music, songs and dances, along with their meanings and origins, are important in maintaining a strong sense of family background. Together, re-construction of family trees, giving children the opportunity to learn their ancestral lines and the preservation of ethnic or religious beliefs may be passed on and strengthened; and
WHEREAS
, Special talents, such as cooking, sculpting or quilting can be passed on to those who display an interest; and
WHEREAS
, Grandparents Day is the perfect time to enhance communication between the generations.
Therefore, The City Council of Philadelphia encourages those who offer Grandparents the opportunity to show their love for their children’s children and those who help children become aware of the strength, information and guidance older people can offer; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PHILADELPHIA,
That Philadelphia Honor all Grandparents on September 7, 2008 – “National Grandparents Day.
”
End