At this time of year, there are always a few instances where people find themselves marking the wrong important moment in the history of the United States of America.
On September 11 each year, Americans and others around the world mark the 9/11 terror attacks with Patriot Day.
This is not actually an official federal holiday, but Patriot Day is the day used each year to remember the roughly 3,000 people who lost their lives during the attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City in 2001.
In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, carried out by terrorists from Al-Qaeda, President George W. Bush announced a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of the Terrorist Attacks on September 11, 2001.
What is the difference between Patriot Day and Patriots’ Day?
Whilst holding a very similar name, Patriots’ Day commemorates events from much further back in the history of the United States of America than 9/11.
It exists for people to remember the battles of Lexington and Concord, which were fought near Boston in 1775. It is held each year on the third Monday of April.
Patriots’ Day is a public holiday, which means that state government offices are closed and some schools and businesses will also be closed to the public.
The city of Boston, Massachusetts celebrates Patriots’ Day every year by organizing the Boston Marathon, a competitive marathon.
One of the most viewed live events in the New England region, the marathon is also the world’s oldest annual marathon, having started in 1897.
Is Patriot Day a public holiday?
Some do want Patriot Day to be a public holiday as well. In 2021, then-State Assembly Mike Lawler sponsored legislation to make September 11 a state holiday, although the measure failed to gain enough support for passage.
“Thousands of families have faced the repercussions of that day, especially the families of those who worked tirelessly on the pile, trying to find survivors and helping other families find closure,” Lawler said in a statement.
How is Patriot Day celebrated?
On Patriot Day, various ceremonies, memorial services, and moments of silence are held across the country. The most well-known event takes place at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, where the names of the victims are read aloud. Additionally, Americans are encouraged to display the American flag at half-staff, and many participate in acts of service and kindness as a way to honor the memory of those lost.