Michigan Will Observe New Holiday to Honor Blue Star Mothers

An organization that got its start in Flint, Michigan in 1942 is finally getting an official holiday. The new state holiday will honor mothers of men and women who serve our country.

On Monday (7/8), Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill that designates February 1 as 'Blue Star Mothers Day.'

Who Are Blue Star Mothers of America?

Blue Star Mothers of America is a private nonprofit organization that provides support for mothers who have sons and daughters actively serving in the US military.

The organization began in 1942 during World War II. The Flint News Advisor printed an ad soliciting mothers of servicemen who were serving in the war and the response was overwhelming. Approximately 300 mothers of servicemen met at the Flint Durant Hotel on February 1, and there were about 1,000 people who responded to the ad in writing.

On February 6, the organization was recognized by congressional records. Shortly thereafter, additional chapters were formed in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Oregon, California, Iowa, Washington, Wisconsin, and New York.

Blue Star Mothers of America was officially chartered by Congress in 1960.

Today, there are more than 200 chapters with about 6,000 members in the US.

Blue Star Mothers Day Becomes a Holiday in Michigan

Senator Rick Outman introduced Senate Bill 235 in March 2023 and it was sent to the State House with a unanimous vote in June. The bill remained in a House committee for about a year before it was eventually put to a vote.

"The care and dedication that Blue Star Mothers of America provide is well worth this annual recognition and something I think people should be reminded of every year," Outman said in a statement to WOOD-TV.

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Outman says the holiday was a long time coming and he expressed gratitude that the bill received support from both sides of the aisle.

I suspect Michigan's State employees will observe the holiday beginning in 2025, but those of us who work in the private sector will not be given the day off.