Join Hands Day

Join Hands Day is an annual American holiday that encourages people from different generations to come together. The holiday was created to bridge the gap between generations and promote understanding. Younger people often criticize older generations for their conservative views and tendency to overthink, while older individuals may view the younger generation as too impulsive or extravagant. While there will always be generational differences, this day aims to lessen the tension. The holiday is observed every year on the first Saturday in May.

History

The first Join Hands Day was celebrated in 2000. It was established by the American Fraternal Alliance (AFA) with the support of Points of Light, another nonprofit organization. Their shared mission was to bring people of all ages together to work toward common goals and support volunteer organizations.

In addition to fostering mutual help and support, the holiday specifically aims to reduce conflicts between different generations. On this day, younger people are encouraged to be respectful of older generations, while older individuals are urged to be more open to the ideas of younger people. The bond between generations is strong and should be nurtured rather than broken.

Interesting facts

• The generational conflict is vividly portrayed in the Russian writer Ivan Turgenev’s novel *Fathers and Sons*.
• The emergence of generational conflict is socially driven: changes in society are inevitable, so people born in different eras will always experience differences in views, values, and attitudes.

How to celebrate

Spend time with your elderly relatives on this day. Consider donating to charities or volunteering your time at nursing homes, children’s shelters, or animal shelters. Any help, no matter how small, makes a difference.

Share the holiday on social media. Ask your followers about their relationships with the older generation.

When is Join Hands Day in 2025?

Join Hands Day is observed on the first Saturday in May each year.

Observations