Tracing the Footsteps of Mother's Day, Between December 22 and May 14 According to its History

Kapanlagi.com - Hari Ibu in Indonesia is celebrated every December 22nd, becoming an important event that receives national appreciation. In 2023, this special day falls on a Friday, providing an opportunity for people to celebrate and honor the extraordinary role and sacrifices of mothers in building families and communities.

The history of Mother's Day celebration in Indonesia began with the first Indonesian Women's Congress held in Yogyakarta on December 22-25, 1928. This initiative then became a milestone in history that marked the recognition of mothers' contributions to the nation's development.

Although Hari Ibu in Indonesia has a different date from the international Mother's Day, which falls on May 14th, both still have a similar essence. Whether in Indonesia or in countries like Europe, Canada, America, Australia, and New Zealand, Mother's Day is a highly celebrated moment.

The difference in dates does not diminish the meaning of both celebrations, which remain as deep expressions of gratitude to all mothers for their dedication, love, and important role in families and communities.

The history of international Mother's Day shows its origins in the United States in 1872, when Julia Ward Howe, a women's rights advocate and famous writer, came up with this idea. Therefore, besides being a moment of love, Mother's Day also carries a broader meaning as a commemoration of women's struggle for their rights.

Kapanlagi.com also provides a more in-depth review of the history of National and International Mother's Day celebrations, on Friday (22/12/2023).

1. History of National Mother's Day on December 22

(Source: Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection of the Republic of Indonesia)

The history of Mother's Day in Indonesia, which is celebrated every December 22nd, has strong roots in the first Indonesian Women's Congress in Yogyakarta in 1928. This event marked an important starting point in the Indonesian women's movement during the pre-independence era and was held just two months after the Second Youth Congress, which resulted in the Youth Pledge.

The organizing committee of the first Indonesian Women's Congress, led by figures such as R.A. Soekanto, Nyi Hadjar Dewantara, and Soejatin, involved 30 organizations from 12 cities in Java and Sumatra.

The agreement reached at the congress was the formation of a federation of women's organizations called the Indonesian Women's Union (PPI) as a step towards advancing women's rights.

The designation of Mother's Day occurred at the Third Indonesian Women's Congress on July 23-28, 1938, initiated by the Committee for the Protection of Indonesian Women and Children (KPKPAI) under the leadership of Emma Puradiredja.

At that time, the Indonesian Women's Association (PII) proposed the designation of Mother's Day on December 22nd, which coincided with the scheduled first day of the first Indonesian Women's Congress.

In addition to the designation of Mother's Day, the congress also proposed the drafting of a special Marriage Law for Muslims, proposed by Maria Ulfah.

In 1959, Mother's Day was officially recognized as a national holiday through Presidential Decree No. 316 of 1959, solidifying recognition of the history and important role of women in building and developing the country. Therefore, December 22nd has a meaning that is officially designated as a moment to commemorate National Mother's Day every year in Indonesia, as a form of appreciation and respect for Indonesian women.

2. History of International Mother's Day on May 14

(Source: prestonsflorist.com)

International Mother's Day is celebrated on Sunday, May 14. This celebration is an annual tradition that falls on the second Sunday of May.

The origin of this celebration can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where festivals were held to honor the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele. This festival later evolved into "Mothering Sunday" in European Christian tradition, which is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent.

Originally a Christian holiday, Mothering Sunday developed into a more secular celebration where children give flowers and gifts to their mothers. This custom then merged with Mother's Day in the United States in the 1930s and 1940s, starting with the efforts of Anna Jarvis after the passing of her mother in 1905. Anna Jarvis initially started "Mother's Friendship Day" to promote friendship among mothers during the Civil War.

President Woodrow Wilson of the United States later designated the second Sunday of May as International Mother's Day, enacting legislation to make it a national observance in the United States.

Therefore, International Mother's Day, celebrated every May 14, becomes a moment to celebrate love and appreciation for mothers worldwide, reflecting the long journey of this tradition from ancient times to becoming a global observance held on the same day in various countries.

3. Example of Happy Mother's Day Greetings

1. "Infinite thanks for the boundless love always given. Happy Mother's Day!"

2. "Your love is incomparable, Mother. Happy Mother's Day to the amazing woman in my life."

3. "Mother is a true hero who never gets tired. Happy Mother's Day, may you always be blessed."

4. "Today is for you, Mother. Thank you for all the sacrifices and love. Happy Mother's Day!"

5. "In every prayer of mine, your name is always mentioned. Thank you for your boundless love, Happy Mother's Day!"

6. "There are no words enough to express how precious your existence is. Happy Mother's Day, the best mother in the world!"

7. "Mother, you are an example of patience, love, and strength. Thank you, Happy Mother's Day!"

8. "In every step I take, I feel your touch of love. Happy Mother's Day, may today be as beautiful as your love."

9. "You are the pillar in my life. Happy Mother's Day, may today be filled with happiness for you!"

10. "Mother, you are a figure who always inspires. Thank you for everything. Happy Mother's Day!"

11. "In every step I take, there is your prayer. Happy Mother's Day to the figure who is always present in every second of my life."

12. "Your selfless love, your prayers never end. Happy Mother's Day to the true hero in my life!"

13. "Mother, you are the first love that never fades. Happy Mother's Day to the irreplaceable figure."

14. "Your love is like a light that illuminates every step I take. Happy Mother's Day to the loving woman."

15. "Every day is Mother's Day when I feel your touch of kindness. Happy Mother's Day to you, beloved Mother!"

16. "Mother, everything you do makes life more beautiful. Thank you, Happy Mother's Day to the extraordinary woman!"

17. "In every advice you give, wisdom is engraved. Happy Mother's Day to the loving and wise figure."

18. "Today is for you, Mother. Happy Mother's Day to the gentle and resilient figure."

19. "Mother, in every second of my life, I feel the warmth of your embrace. Thank you, Happy Mother's Day!"

20. "Behind your smile, there is endless love. Happy Mother's Day to the woman who always gives her best."

4. Example of Happy Mother's Day Greetings in English

1. "To the most incredible woman in my life, Happy Mother's Day! Your love is my guiding light."

2. "Mom, your strength and love inspire me every day. Wishing you a Happy Mother's Day filled with joy."

3. "Happy Mother's Day to the queen of our family. Your kindness and wisdom shine bright in our lives."

4. "Thank you for being my rock, my guide, and my best friend. Happy Mother's Day, Mom!"

5. "On this special day, I celebrate the love and care you've given me. Happy Mother's Day!"

6. "Mom, your sacrifices and endless love are treasures in my life. Wishing you a Happy Mother's Day!"

7. "To the woman who taught me how to be strong and kind, Happy Mother's Day!"

8. "Your love is my comfort, your wisdom my guiding star. Happy Mother's Day, Mom!"

9. "Wishing you a day filled with happiness, laughter, and love.Happy Mother's Day, Mom!"

10. "In every smile of mine, I see your love shining through.Happy Mother's Day to the world's greatest mom!"

11. "Thank you for being the heart of our family.Happy Mother's Day to the most amazing woman I know!"

12. "Your love has shaped me into who I am today.Happy Mother's Day to the most loving mom!"

13. "Mom, your strength and grace never cease to amaze me.Happy Mother's Day to an incredible woman!"

14. "To the one who's always there with a hug, a smile, and unconditional love.Happy Mother's Day!"

15. "Your love is a guiding force in my life. Happy Mother's Day to the best mom ever!"

16. "Mom, your love is a beacon of light in my darkest moments. Happy Mother's Day!"

17. "Wishing a Happy Mother's Day to the most caring and wonderful mother anyone could ask for!"

18. "Happy Mother's Day! Your love and support mean the world to me."

19. "Mom, you're not just my parent but also my best friend. Happy Mother's Day!"

20. "To the one who's been my pillar of strength, Happy Mother's Day! Your love is my greatest gift."

5. Question and Answer

1. What is the difference between Hari Ibu and Mother's Day?

Essentially, the difference between the two lies only in the day of celebration and who celebrates it.

(kpl/amh)