Loyalty Day is observed annually on May 1. It is a special day for people to reaffirm their loyalty to the United States and to recognize the heritage of American freedom. The President of the U.S. issues a proclamation annually on May 1 as part of celebratory activities of Loyalty Day.
First observed in 1921 as “Americanization Day,” this holiday was intended to counterbalance the Communist celebration of Labor Day on May Day. On July 18, 1958, it was made an official holiday by the U.S. Congress (Public Law 85-529). President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed May 1, 1959, the first official observance of Loyalty Day. This day has been recognized with an official proclamation every year, by every president, since its inception as a legal holiday in 1958.
