Helen Keller Day
June 27, Friday
Background
Helen Keller was born on June 27, 1880, in Tuscumbia, Alabama. At 19 months old, she contracted an illness—possibly scarlet fever or meningitis—that left her both deaf and blind. With the help of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, Keller learned to communicate and went on to become the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. She became a powerful voice for people with disabilities and worked tirelessly for social justice, women's suffrage, and labor rights.
History of the Holiday
Helen Keller Day was first proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter in 1980 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of her birth. Since then, various organizations and communities across the country have continued to observe the day in her honor.
Ways the Day is Celebrated
Many organizations and individuals celebrate Helen Keller Day in a variety of ways, including:
- Hosting educational events and lectures about Helen Keller’s life and achievements
- Organizing community service projects to support people with disabilities
- Promoting awareness about accessibility and inclusion
- Sharing inspirational quotes and stories from Helen Keller on social media
Significance
Helen Keller Day serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, education, and advocacy. It highlights the importance of accessibility and equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities. The day also encourages people to reflect on the progress made in disability rights and the work that still needs to be done.