National Day of Reason

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: Pagan
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: First Thursday of May
Holiday emoji:: 🧠

National Day of Reason champions secularism and critical thought every first Thursday in May. It provides an inclusive platform for non-religious Americans, advocating for the separation of church and state. Reflect on the role of reason in public life, engage in community discussions, and support secular organizations.

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Expected National Day of Reason Deals

As a cause-driven observance, the National Day of Reason focuses on advocacy and education rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the American Humanist Association and the Freedom From Religion Foundation encourage support for their work in promoting secular values and the separation of church and state. Look for opportunities to donate, volunteer, or participate in local events and discussions. We will update this page with specific campaigns and initiatives from secular advocacy groups as May approaches.

Platform Guide for National Day of Reason

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalDayOfReason. Share photos or videos of local secular community events or personal reflections on critical thinking.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalDayOfReason. Join discussions on the importance of reason in public policy and share secular perspectives.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalDayOfReason. Share articles and resources promoting secular values and the separation of church and state.

National Day of Reason Hero

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. President and a principal author of the Declaration of Independence, was a staunch advocate for the separation of church and state. His Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, enacted in 1786, served as a precursor to the First Amendment's Establishment Clause. Jefferson championed reason and individual liberty, believing that government should not interfere with religious belief or non-belief. His legacy profoundly influences the principles behind the National Day of Reason.

History of National Day of Reason

Since time immemorial, various days have been designated for prayer and religious observances. People called for prayer, fasting, and giving thanks.

This is where the National Day of Prayer stems from. In 1952, President Harry S. Truman established this religious holiday, in which people are asked to turn to God in prayer and meditation. However, as religions diverged from previously established paths, an ideology of inclusivity took hold. Many people of America did not believe in any religion and thus, couldn’t celebrate this holiday. And so, our special day was born.

The American Humanist Association banded together with the Washington Area Secular Humanists to create a secular holiday for all those atheists, humanists, secularists, and those who can’t celebrate the National Day of Prayer.

While the celebrations (and popularity) increased slowly over time, many more local and state governments are giving this day official recognition.

Celebrations have taken the form of blood drives, secular events and activities, and in some cases, protests against the National Day of Prayer. This day has also received support from politicians like Mayor Jean Stothert (Omaha, Nebraska), who supported the National Day of Reason by signing a proclamation, and Pete Stark, who also supported the day in the House of Representatives.

These celebrations fall in the Secular Week of Action when people volunteer to make the world a better place.

National Day of Reason timeline

2003

Our Day Is Born

To give non-religious people a reason to celebrate, the American Humanist Association and the Washington Area Secular Humanists found National Day of Reason; it is held in close proximity to National Day of Prayer.

2005

Celebrations in a Positive Manner

New York City-based Center for Atheism strongly advocates for more positive celebrations; the entire group decides to donate blood on National Day of Reason.

2011-2012

Our Day Is Introduced to the House

Representative Pete Stark supports a proclamation for National Day of Reason in the House of Representatives.

2018

Efforts To Officially Recognize Our Day

Representative Jared Huffman sponsors another resolution to officially designate the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Reason.

2021

Another Day, Another Effort

Representative Jamie Raskin introduces a resolution to designate May 7, 2021, as the National Day of Reason, in the U.S. House of Representatives; it is co-sponsored by six fellow Congressional Freethought Caucus members.

National Day of Reason FAQs

When is National Day of Reason?

In 2027, the National Day of Reason will be observed on Thursday, May 6. It serves as a vital counterpoint to traditional religious observances, emphasizing the role of reason.

How many Americans identify as non-religious?

The number of Americans identifying as non-religious continues to grow, with recent surveys indicating nearly three in ten adults do not affiliate with any religion. This demographic shift highlights the increasing relevance of days like the National Day of Reason.

What is the purpose of the National Day of Reason?

This observance aims to highlight the value of evidence-based policy-making and secular governance, encouraging public discourse free from religious influence. It’s a day for secularists and allies to affirm their commitment to rational inquiry and civil liberties.

Is the National Day of Reason a federal holiday?

While not a federal holiday, the National Day of Reason is recognized and celebrated by a growing number of secular communities and individuals across the United States. It stands as a symbolic counterpoint to its religious counterpart.

How to Observe National Day of Reason

Check out local celebrations
Several organizations hold food and blood drives, donations, and other activities on this day. Go ahead and volunteer for the ones you prefer.
Organize a letter-writing campaign
Have National Day of Reason declared an official celebration by your local government if they haven't done this already. Talk to community leaders and local people to get more support for your cause.
Visit the official website
Sign up as an endorser on the official National Day of Reason website, read media coverage of previous years' celebrations, and view upcoming planned events.

5 Important Facts About Religion And Governance

God's not in the U.S. constitution
The U.S. Constitution does not mention God, but references appear in state constitutions, the Declaration of Independence, the Pledge of Allegiance, and even on U.S. currency.
Religion in the current congress
In 2019, a majority — around 88% — of representatives in the current congress identified as Christian.
63% of Americans dislike religion and politics intermingling
76% say houses of worship should not even endorse political candidates.
Religion shouldn't influence policies
A 2017 survey showed that 65% of respondents believed religion should be kept out of government policies.
Famous presidents and their religious affiliation
Presidents Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln had no formal religious affiliation; almost all the others were Christian.

Why National Day of Reason is Important

We celebrate reason
Logic and rational thinking are at the center of a secular democracy. So we look at this day as a way to honor reason and its separation from religion.
Reason itself is a crucial tool
When we confront humanity's most complex and pressing issues, we need 'reason' to back us up. So observing a day that quite literally celebrates reason is a gift.
It leads the way to an inclusive future
A country that accepts and celebrates every kind of person, culture, and religious or non-religious affiliation is a truly inclusive country. National Day of Reason takes us in this direction.