National Freedom to Marry Day is a non-official U.S. holiday celebrating and promoting marriage equality, particularly focusing on same-sex marriage rights. It serves as a powerful symbol of love, commitment, and the ongoing journey toward complete equality.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: February 12
- Tagged as: LGBTQ+ Rights, Marriage Equality, Civil Rights
- What’s the hashtag?: #FreedomToMarryDay #MarriageEquality
- When was it founded?: 1998
- Who founded it?: Lambda Legal (Washington, DC)
History
The holiday emerged as part of the broader movement for marriage equality in the United States. Lambda Legal established this date strategically between Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday and Valentine’s Day, symbolizing both civil rights and love. The most significant moment came in 2004 when San Francisco began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.
Timeline
- 1998: Holiday established by Lambda Legal
- 2004: San Francisco issues first same-sex marriage licenses
- 2015: Supreme Court legalizes same-sex marriage nationwide
- 2016: Freedom to Marry organization closes after achieving its mission
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February | 12 |
| 2026 | February | 12 |
| 2027 | February | 12 |
| 2028 | February | 12 |
| 2029 | February | 12 |
Observed
People celebrate by tying symbolic knots around trees and lamp posts, hosting awareness events, sharing love stories on social media, and some couples choose this meaningful date for their weddings.
Fun Facts About
- It’s celebrated just two days before Valentine’s Day
- The “tying the knot” tradition involves actual knot-tying around public spaces
- The day coincides with Abraham Lincoln’s birthday
- It played a crucial role in the marriage equality movement
Quiz
- In which year was National Freedom to Marry Day established?
- Who founded this holiday?
- What symbolic action do people perform on this day?
-(Answers: 1998, Lambda Legal, Tying knots around trees and posts)
FAQs
Q: Is it a federal holiday?
A: No, it’s a non-official observance
Q: Can anyone celebrate?
A: Yes, it’s open to all supporters of marriage equality
Importance of Freedom to Marry Day
The day continues to serve as a reminder of the struggle for marriage equality and the importance of protecting these rights. It promotes awareness, acceptance, and celebration of love in all its forms.
Related
- Pride Month
- Coming Out Day
- Valentine’s Day
- Civil Rights Day
- Love is Love Day