Daisy Gatson Bates Day

Daisy Gatson Bates Day is observed on the third Monday of February. In 2026, it falls on February 16. This state holiday in Arkansas honors the life and legacy of a prominent civil rights activist and journalist who played a central role in the desegregation of public schools.

History of Daisy Gatson Bates Day

The holiday was established by the Arkansas General Assembly in 2001 to recognize the contributions of Daisy Gatson Bates to the state and the nation. Bates was a leader in the civil rights movement, most notably serving as the president of the Arkansas chapter of the NAACP during the 1957 integration crisis at Little Rock Central High School. By naming an official state holiday after her, Arkansas became one of the first states to honor a civil rights activist in this manner.

The day is observed concurrently with George Washington’s Birthday, making it a significant date for both state and national reflection. Over the years, the recognition of Bates has expanded beyond the state holiday. In 2024, a statue of her was installed in the National Statuary Hall at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., marking another milestone in the preservation of her historical impact.

Why is Daisy Gatson Bates Day important?

This day serves as a reminder of the power of grassroots activism and the importance of educational equality. Daisy Gatson Bates was instrumental in recruiting and mentoring the nine students, known as the Little Rock Nine, who integrated Central High School. Her leadership during this period brought international attention to the struggle for civil rights and eventually led to the enforcement of federal desegregation laws in public education.

Beyond her work with students, the holiday highlights the role of the free press in social change. Bates and her husband co-owned and operated the Arkansas State Press, a newspaper that publicized instances of racial injustice and advocated for the implementation of the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education ruling. The holiday honors the courage required to challenge systemic barriers and celebrates the progress made toward a more inclusive society.

• The holiday commemorates the successful integration of Arkansas public schools.
• It highlights the role of local journalism in advocating for civil liberties.
• This day encourages the study of the landmark 1957 events at Little Rock Central High School.
• Honoring Bates acknowledges her status as the only woman to speak at the 1963 March on Washington.
• The day provides an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing work of community organizers.

How to Observe Daisy Gatson Bates Day

Many people observe the day by visiting the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site or the Daisy Bates House Museum. These locations offer ranger-led tours and exhibits that provide specific details about the 1957 integration crisis and the strategies used by activists. Educational programs and documentaries are often broadcast on state networks to provide further historical context about her life and the broader civil rights movement.

Community events frequently include lectures, panel discussions, and student-led presentations on the history of equality in Arkansas. Since it is a state holiday, government offices are closed, allowing citizens to participate in local memorial services or volunteer with literacy and civil rights organizations. Reading her memoirs, such as “The Long Shadow of Little Rock,” is another way to gain a direct perspective on the challenges she faced during her career.

• Visit a national historic site to learn about the Little Rock Nine.
• Watch educational documentaries focusing on the 1957 school integration crisis.
• Support local organizations that focus on educational equity and civil rights.
• Take a guided tour of the Daisy Bates House Museum in Little Rock.
• Participate in community discussions regarding the history of the Arkansas State Press.

Daisy Gatson Bates Day Dates Table