A MOTHER’S DAY MESSAGE FROM MAYOR PEREZ

(May 11, 2007)--- I would like to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in Hartford and to those who fill the role of mothers.  I also extend a special thought and prayer to the memories of the moms who are no longer with us on earth, but remain in our hearts and minds because they have touched our souls.

As we salute moms, we should pause and thank them for their love and guidance.  They are our first teachers.  And for those who have taken the reigns to fill those shoes, thank you for your unconditional support.

Also, in a year where the City of Hartford is making a huge investment in our youth, an extra thanks to those of you who give back to the community through mentoring and other positive ways of leading by example.  Many volunteers are moms who are reaching out to others and by doing so, extending their families.

Hartford moms have been giving from the heart for centuries.  As one of America’s oldest cities, it is interesting to take a look back at the origin of Mother’s Day. 

     *It can be traced back to the spring celebrations of ancient Greece in honor of Rhea, the Mother of the Gods. 

     *During the 1600’s, England celebrated “Mothering Sunday” in which servants would have the day off and were encouraged to return home to be with their mothers.

     *In the United States, Julia Ward Howe of Boston first suggested Mother’s Day in 1872, as a way to dedicate a day to peace. 

     *In 1907, Ana Jarvis of Philadelphia--- wanting to remember the passing of her mom--- began a campaign to establish a national Mother’s Day. 

     *In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

So let’s remember history, and let’s remember to say, “Thanks Mom!”  I know I will.