Mother’s Day has been an official holiday in the United States since 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May to be Mother’s Day. The idea of Mother’s Day came from an American woman, Anna Jarvis, and her mother, Ann Jarvis; These women, alongside others, organized a group that would celebrate friendships and health. 

Although Mother’s Day originated in the United States, countries all around the world celebrate the holiday, just in different ways. Many countries celebrate on the same day, however, in the United Kingdom, they celebrate mothers on the fourth Sunday of Lent called “Mothering Sunday.” Most of the time Mother’s Day is celebrated in May or March, depending on the country and religion. Many religions rely on a church calendar, placing Mother’s Day at different points in the year and around other religious holidays. 

To celebrate mothers, CWU hosts an annual Mother’s Day Brunch in the Holmes Dining Room to commemorate this important day.

“For our family, Mother’s Day means quality family time and a chance to celebrate my best friend: my mom,” Gabriela Gonzalez, a senior communication major, said. “We typically go out to brunch and walk along the waterfront in Ruston Way in Tacoma. I miss seeing my mom regularly while I’ve been at college, so I really appreciate getting to go home for Mother’s Day weekend.” 

For many students at CWU visiting home can be a rare occasion. “With me being in college, another important thing she [my mom] wants is time together,” Jade Cupples, junior graphic design major, said.  “So I try coming home as much as I can to hug her and be with her. She’s my best friend, and just talking and laughing with each other is the best gift of all.”

Mothers are honored everywhere, across national boundaries and religious traditions. The purpose of this day is to express our gratitude, love, and admiration for our moms and our maternal ties. To all the mothers, thank you.