National Birth Mothers Day

National Birth Mother’s Day: Honoring Strength and Sacrifice

National Birth Mother’s Day is a heartfelt observance dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the courage and selflessness of birth mothers who have placed their children for adoption. It is a day of solidarity, reflection, and appreciation for the sacrifices these women make out of love for their children.

Quick Facts

When is it? The Saturday before Mother’s Day (second Sunday of May).
Tagged as: Adoption Awareness, Birth Mother Recognition, Family Celebration.
What’s the hashtag? #BirthMothersDay
When was it founded? 1990
Who founded it? Mary Jean Wolch-Marsh and a group of birth mothers in Seattle, Washington.

History of National Birth Mother’s Day

National Birth Mother’s Day was first celebrated in 1990. It was founded by Mary Jean Wolch-Marsh, a birth mother herself, along with a group of other women from Seattle. They established this day to offer solidarity and support for birth mothers during a time when society predominantly celebrated parenting mothers. The aim was to create a space where birth mothers could be recognized for their sacrifices and contributions while educating communities about adoption.

Over the years, this day has evolved into an international observance that highlights the courage of birth mothers and spreads awareness about adoption. It also serves as a platform for adoptive families to honor the women who brought their children into the world.

Timeline

1990: National Birth Mother’s Day is first celebrated in Seattle, Washington.
2000s: The day gains traction within the adoption community and begins spreading awareness about open adoptions.
2010s: Observance expands globally, fostering greater understanding of adoption-related challenges.
2020: Celebrations increasingly incorporate virtual gatherings due to global connectivity.
2024: National Birth Mother’s Day will be observed on May 11.

Dates by Next Year

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	May 10	Saturday
2026	May 9	Saturday
2027	May 8	Saturday
2028	May 13	Saturday
2029	May 12	Saturday
2030	May 11	Saturday

Observed

National Birth Mother’s Day is observed through various activities such as:

Sending letters or gifts to birth mothers.
Hosting gatherings for birth mothers to connect and share experiences.
Educating others about adoption and the role of birth mothers.
Reflecting on the sacrifices made by birth mothers through personal or family tributes.

Fun Facts About National Birth Mother’s Day

Most birth mothers are between the ages of 25 and 35.
Open adoptions have become more common since the late ’80s, allowing many birth mothers to maintain contact with their children.
The day helps break stereotypes about birth mothers, showcasing their love and courage.

Quiz

When is National Birth Mother’s Day typically celebrated?
Who founded National Birth Mother’s Day?
What is one common misconception about birth mothers?

Answers:

The Saturday before Mother’s Day.
Mary Jean Wolch-Marsh.
That they place children for adoption out of indifference rather than love.

FAQs

Q: Is this day only for birth mothers who chose adoption willingly?
A: No, it honors all birth mothers, including those who were pressured or coerced into adoption.

Q: How is this different from Mother’s Day?
A: While Mother’s Day celebrates all mothers, Birth Mother’s Day specifically honors women who have placed children for adoption.

Q: Why is National Birth Mother’s Day important?
A: It ensures visibility for birth mothers, celebrates their courage, and spreads awareness about adoption.

Q: Is this day only for adoptees and adoptive families?
A: No, it’s also a day for society at large to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by birth mothers.

Q: Can adopted children celebrate both Mother’s Days?
A: Yes, it’s entirely up to them and their families.