Why I Started This Effort.

My name is Ms. Mechael Wright-Hodges, and I originally set out to create a special day for young Americans as part of the celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026.

I believed that as our nation reached this historic milestone, we should take time to recognize the young people who will carry America into its next 250 years. I wanted young Americans to have an official day of their own—a day when families, schools, communities, businesses, organizations, and public leaders could come together each year to celebrate their talents, achievements, ideas, creativity, and future.

As I continued researching holidays and observances honoring young people in America, I discovered something that changed the direction of this effort.

Sixty-six years before me, Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers of Massachusetts had already tried to establish Young Americans’ Day.

On February 15, 1960, Congresswoman Rogers introduced House Joint Resolution 612, requesting that the President proclaim April 19 of every year as Young Americans’ Day. Her proposal was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary, but it was never enacted.

When I learned about Congresswoman Rogers and her long record of public service—including her advocacy for women and veterans—I no longer felt that I was simply creating a new observance.

I felt that I had discovered something that had been left unfinished.

As a woman, I feel a special responsibility to honor the work of a woman who came before me and had the courage to bring this idea before Congress 66 years ago. I want to help see her vision through.

That is why I am asking Americans across the country to join me.

With the support of the people who sign this petition, we are asking President Donald J. Trump, members of Congress, and other national leaders to recognize April 19 as Young Americans Day™, annually and in perpetuity.

I am asking schools, colleges, youth clubs, families, businesses, community organizations, civic leaders, and communities throughout America to unite behind this effort.

Let us finish what Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers started in 1960.

Let us give young Americans an official day of their own—a day to be celebrated, encouraged, listened to, and reminded that they have an important place in the future of the United States of America.

Young Americans Day™ — April 19
Honoring the Legacy of Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers

Help us finish what Edith started 66 years ago.

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Young Americans Day™ — April 19
Honoring the Legacy of Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers

Let us give young Americans one day each year that belongs to them—a day when their families, communities, schools, businesses, and nation come together to recognize their talents, celebrate their achievements, listen to their voices, and invest in their future.

About American USA, Inc.
American USA, Inc. is leading the modern effort to revive Young Americans Day™ and bring Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers’ 1960 vision forward for a new generation.

The organization encourages families, schools, colleges, community leaders, businesses, youth-serving organizations, civic organizations, and public officials to participate in building a positive annual observance dedicated to celebrating America’s youth, strengthening civic pride, encouraging community involvement, and supporting the next generation of American leadership.

Sign this petition and help continue a vision that began in Congress in 1960.

Young Americans Day™ — April 19
Honoring the Legacy of Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers

Young People. Strong Nation. Bright Future.

American USA, Inc.
www.YoungAmericansDay.org
© 2026 American USA, Inc.