National Grandparents Day is observed on the first Sunday after Labor Day in the United States. National Grandparents Day 2019 will be celebrated on September 8 to show honour and respect towards the older generation. The history of the origin of the day dates back to 1969 when a nine-year-old Russell Capper sent a letter to US President Nixon urging for a special day to be designated for grandparents. People present their grandfathers and grandmothers with presents to show love and respect towards them. Children Raised by Grandparents Are Well-behaved.

According to granparentsday.org, the theme for this year's celebrations is 'Dig In! Bringing generations to the table.' The day celebrates both maternal and paternal grandparents. Grandparents Day is also observed in Australia, France, Germany, Canada, Estonia, Poland, South Sudan and the United Kingdom.

National Grandparents Day History

Marian McQuade who served on the West Virginia Commission on Aging and the Nursing Home Licensing Board is considered the founder of National Grandparents Day. After the recommendation of Marian McQuade, West Virginia's Governor Arch Moore proclaimed annual Grandparents' Day for the state. Due to McQuade's efforts, West Virginia became the first state with a day to honour grandparents followed by the entire country. In 1973, Senator Jennings Randolph introduced a resolution to the senate to make Grandparents' Day a national holiday.

On June 12, 1969, he received a letter back from Rose Mary Woods who was the Personal Secretary to the President saying, "Dear Russell, Thank you for your letter to President Nixon. Your suggestion regarding a Grandparent’s Day is appreciated, but the President ordinarily issues proclamations designating periods for special observance only when a Congressional resolution authorizes him to do so. With best wishes, Sincerely, Rose Mary Woods Personal Secretary to the President."

Marian McQuade used to observe the day by distributing food to elders in the neighbourhood. On this day, various events and programmes are organised to pay respect to grandparents and thank them for their contribution to society.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 08, 2019 08:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).