As families across the area celebrate Mother’s Day, many will gather with flowers, cards, and special meals to honor the mothers and mother figures in their lives.
Mother’s Day is celebrated each year on the second Sunday in May and has become one of the most recognized holidays in the United States.
The modern version of Mother’s Day traces its roots back more than a century to West Virginia native Anna Jarvis, who organized the first official Mother’s Day celebration in 1908 to honor her late mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis.
Jarvis campaigned for the holiday to become nationally recognized, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially proclaimed Mother’s Day a national holiday.
Ironically, Jarvis later became outspoken against the commercialization of the day, criticizing businesses for turning the celebration into what she believed was an overly commercial event centered around gifts and greeting cards.
Today, Mother’s Day remains one of the busiest holidays of the year for restaurants, florists, and retailers, while also serving as a time for families to reflect on the importance of motherhood and family connections.
Local churches, schools, and organizations throughout the area are also planning special events and tributes throughout the weekend in honor of mothers across the community.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the mommas, and those who fulfill the role.
