Shared Parenting Day is an annual United States observance on April 26 in several states to promote the active involvement of both parents in raising their children following divorce or separation. The day was first established in Kentucky in 2019, coinciding with the state's landmark shared parenting legislation, and has since been recognized by other states.
History
Shared Parenting Day was first observed in Kentucky in 2019,[1] following the passage of Kentucky House Bill 528 (H.B. 528) in 2018.[2] This groundbreaking law created a rebuttable presumption that equal shared parenting time and decision-making by both parents is in the child's best interest, making Kentucky the first state to pass such legislation.[3] The observance of April 26th was chosen to commemorate the signing of this bill by GovernorMatt Bevin on April 26, 2018.[2][4][5] The initiative for Shared Parenting Day was led by Matt Hale, a board member of the National Parents Organization (NPO), who also designated yellow as the day's official color to symbolize family reunification.[5]
In 2023, Wisconsin proposed a resolution to proclaim Shared Parenting Day, though it did not pass. Despite this, the movement continues to grow, with advocates pushing for recognition in additional states.
Significance
Shared Parenting Day raises awareness about the benefits of shared parenting, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong relationships between children and both parents post-separation. The day also advocates for legislative changes to make shared parenting the default in custody arrangements.[1]
(federal) = federal holidays, (abbreviation) = state/territorial holidays, (religious) = religious holidays, (cultural) = holiday related to a specific racial/ethnic group or sexual minority, (week) = week-long holidays, (month) = month-long holidays, (36) = Title 36 Observances and Ceremonies
