Helen Keller Day

Helen Keller Day is an annual commemorative holiday celebrated on June 27th to honor the life and achievements of Helen Keller, an American author, political activist, and lecturer who was the first deafblind person to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Quick Facts

When is it?: June 27th annually
Tagged as: Commemorative holiday, Disability awareness
What’s the hashtag?: #HelenKellerDay
When was it founded?: Officially proclaimed in 1980
Who founded it?: President Jimmy Carter through presidential proclamation

History of Helen Keller Day

The idea of a holiday to honor Helen Keller was first proposed in 1960 by local mayors in New Jersey and Maryland. However, it gained national recognition in 1980 when President Jimmy Carter issued a proclamation to honor Helen Keller and her life achievements on her 100th birthday.

Timeline

1880: Helen Keller is born on June 27th in Tuscumbia, Alabama
1887: Anne Sullivan becomes Helen’s teacher, making a breakthrough in her education
1904: Helen graduates from Radcliffe College, becoming the first deafblind person to earn a bachelor’s degree
1960: Local mayors first proclaim Helen Keller Day
1980: President Jimmy Carter officially establishes Helen Keller Day on June 27th

Helen Keller Day Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	June 27	Friday
2026	June 27	Saturday
2027	June 27	Sunday
2028	June 27	Tuesday
2029	June 27	Wednesday
2030	June 27	Thursday

Observed Helen Keller Day

Helen Keller Day is observed internationally, particularly by organizations that support individuals who are blind or deaf. The American Foundation for the Blind organizes events to honor Helen Keller’s legacy and raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with visual and auditory impairments.

Many schools and educational institutions use this day to teach students about Helen Keller’s life and the importance of perseverance and education for all, regardless of physical limitations.

Fundraising events, such as the annual fashion show held in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, are common on this day to support organizations that assist people with disabilities.

Fun Facts About Helen Keller

Helen Keller learned to speak and gave lectures and speeches throughout her life
She was friends with famous figures like Alexander Graham Bell and Mark Twain
Keller authored 12 books and numerous articles
She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964
Keller was a co-founder of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

Quiz

In what year was Helen Keller born?
What was the name of Helen Keller’s teacher?
What college did Helen Keller graduate from?
What was Helen’s breakthrough word?
How old was Helen when she died?

(Answers: 1. 1880, 2. Anne Sullivan, 3. Radcliffe College, 4. Water, 5. 87)

FAQs

Q: What disabilities did Helen Keller have?
A: Helen Keller was both deaf and blind, becoming so after an illness at 19 months old.

Q: What was Helen Keller’s first word?
A: Helen Keller’s first word was “water,” which she learned to spell using the manual alphabet.

Q: Did Helen Keller learn to speak?
A: Yes, Helen Keller learned to speak and gave many lectures throughout her life.

Q: What books did Helen Keller write?
A: Helen Keller wrote 12 books, including her famous autobiography “The Story of My Life.”

Q: Was Helen Keller ever married?
A: No, Helen Keller never married, although she did fall in love once but was unable to marry due to family disapproval.

Importance of Helen Keller Day

Helen Keller Day serves as a powerful reminder that individuals can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles with determination and support. It inspires people worldwide to persevere in the face of challenges and to believe in their potential, regardless of their circumstances.

This day also raises awareness about the needs and capabilities of people with disabilities, particularly those who are deaf or blind. It encourages society to create more inclusive environments and provide equal opportunities for all individuals.

Furthermore, Helen Keller Day celebrates the power of education and the impact of dedicated teachers like Anne Sullivan. It underscores the importance of accessible education and the transformative effect it can have on an individual’s life and society as a whole.