The National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) is an annual day of observance held during the first week of February to acknowledge the accomplishments of female athletes, recognize the influence of sports participation for women and girls, and honor the progress and advocation for equality for women in sports.[1][2]
"In recognition of the contributions women's sports have made to this country, and of the need to further advance women's sports, the Congress, by
Public Law 99-540, has designated February 4, 1987, as "National Women in Sports Day" and authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation
in observance of this event. NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States do hereby proclaim February 4, 1987, as National Women in
Sports Day.[6]
On February 3, 1987, President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5606 declaring February 4, 1987, as National Women in Sports Day.[6]
NGWSD was originally initiated in 1987 as a day to remember Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman for her achievements and work for equality. Hyman died suddenly of Marfan Syndrome, a genetic disorder of the connective tissue, in 1986 while competing in a volleyball tournament in Japan. Since then, the day of observance has evolved to recognize all women athletes, their past and current sports achievements, the positive influence of sports participation for women, girls and society, as well as the progress made since Title IX was passed and the continuing struggle for equality and access for women in sports.[7]
(federal) = federal holidays, (abbreviation) = state/territorial holidays, (religious) = religious holidays, (cultural) = holiday related to a specific racial/ethnic grouporsexual minority, (week) = week-long holidays, (month) = month-long holidays, (36) = Title 36 Observances and Ceremonies
United States
