Analysis of Why September 11 is Not a Federal Holiday

Every year, Americans remember the September 11 terrorist attacks with various observances, including flying flags at half-staff and holding moments of silence. Despite multiple proposals in Congress to designate September 11 as a federal holiday, none have been successful. Federal holidays are established through legislation, and while some states may recognize their own holidays, federal holidays apply only to federal employees and the District of Columbia. Currently, there are 12 permanent federal holidays in the U.S., including Labor Day and Thanksgiving Day. According to a Congressional Research Service report, Congress has created federal holidays in response to state holidays or has taken the initiative itself. Matthew Dennis, a professor emeritus at the University of Oregon, noted that the high costs associated with federal holidays and potential disruptions to businesses are significant barriers to establishing new ones. The last federal holiday added was Juneteenth in 2021, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people. The establishment of Juneteenth followed a long campaign, spurred by nationwide protests against racism and police violence. Although September 11 is not a federal holiday, Congress designated it as Patriot Day in 2001, which calls for a moment of silence and the flying of flags at half-staff. In 2009, Patriot Day was further recognized as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, allowing federal grants to support community service initiatives. Some local governments, like Monmouth County in New Jersey, have designated September 11 as a holiday for their employees. Despite bipartisan proposals to make September 11 a federal holiday, none have advanced to a vote, often introduced by representatives from New York and Pennsylvania. Proponents argue that a federal holiday would honor the memory of the victims and the heroism displayed on that day. Dennis expressed skepticism about the likelihood of September 11 becoming a federal holiday, citing the nature of the tragedy and the lack of a clear patriotic narrative. He compared it to Pearl Harbor Day, which is also commemorated as a day of remembrance rather than a federal holiday. Concerns exist that designating September 11 as a federal holiday could lead to its significance being diminished, as it may become just another day off. Additionally, the economic implications of federal holidays are significant, with estimates suggesting that Juneteenth could cost taxpayers approximately $918 million. Former President Donald Trump has also criticized the number of federal holidays, citing the financial burden they impose on the economy.