Why not shake up America’s national holidays?
Washington Post staff

Why not shake up America’s national holidays?

Why Not? Is a bi-weekly newsletter from Post Opinions written by columnist Daniel Pink, who will explore bold, surprising ideas to improve our world. Click the “subscribe” button above to make sure you receive every edition of this newsletter.

By Daniel Pink, Contributing Opinion columnist

According to a 2021 YouGov poll, fewer than 1 in 10 Americans visit a gravesite on Memorial Day or participate in other events honoring our fallen service members.

And it’s not just Memorial Day. Whether we’re supposed to be honoring civil rights icons or heroic presidents or American workers, the year has become so barnacled with extended holidays that each tribute risks losing its original meaning. What began as national obligations to share and reflect have become personal entitlements to shop and relax.

Just as we periodically renovate our public spaces, it’s time to do the same with our public calendar.

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Edward Liggett

Vietnam Veteran, 4 tours, 1 tour NKP Thailand; U.S. Air Force Retiree and Dependent Son

1mo

Just because Knuckleheads do not honor national holidays it doesn’t mean there should be collective punishment for those that do. Haven’t Americans had enough of Fools running the country? If so, blame yourself and do better! American Voters, please fumigate Congress of Republicans in 2024! Thank you!

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Michael Roberts

Studying Brandon Sheckler,Dan Sullivan, ScannerDanner.com and Worker owned cooperative

1mo

Have fun 👍

Colleen Allaire

Security Professional | Loss Prevention, Retail Strategy

1mo

No, the white picket fence is a desire fueled by independent operator discretion

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