National Missing Persons Day is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about missing individuals and supporting their families. This day serves as a platform to commemorate those who have disappeared, highlight unsolved cases, and encourage public involvement in finding missing persons.
Quick Facts
When is it: February 3rd annually
Tagged as: Awareness Day
What’s the hashtag: #NationalMissingPersonsDay
When was it founded: November 30, 2017
Who founded it: Jo Ann Lowitzer
History of National Missing Persons Day
Jo Ann Lowitzer established this day after her daughter Alexandria went missing in 2010. Initially starting as a local observance in Houston, Texas, it expanded to become a national day of recognition in 2018. The day aims to increase public awareness and support for missing persons cases across the United States.
Timeline
- 1809: First Missing Persons Act passed in the United Kingdom
- 1902: First Missing Persons Bureau established in London
- 1940: U.S. National Missing Persons Bureau established
- 1975: AMBER Alert system introduced
- 2008: International Commission on Missing Persons launched DNA identification system
- 2018: First National Missing Persons Day observed
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 3 | Monday |
| 2026 | February 3 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | February 3 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | February 3 | Thursday |
| 2029 | February 3 | Friday |
| 2030 | February 3 | Monday |
How It Is Observed
Communities across the nation organize awareness events, candlelight vigils, and information sessions. Law enforcement agencies and missing persons organizations use this day to share resources and information about ongoing cases.
Fun Facts About Missing Persons Day
- Approximately 2,300 people go missing daily in the US
- The day shares a connection with National Missing Children’s Day (May 25)
- Social media has become a crucial tool in finding missing persons
- The milk carton campaign for missing children began in the 1980s
Quiz
- Q: How many people go missing daily in the US?
- A: Approximately 2,300
FAQs
- Do you have to wait 24 hours to report someone missing?
No, you can report immediately - Who can report a missing person?
Anyone can report a missing person - Does age matter when reporting?
No, missing persons can be reported regardless of age
Related
- National Missing Children’s Day
- International Missing Children’s Day
- POW/MIA Recognition Day
- National AMBER Alert Awareness Day