Father’s Day: Why is it celebrated on March 19 in Bolivia? | Día del Padre: ¿Por qué se celebra el 19 de marzo en Bolivia?

By Silvia Sanchez, Red Uno; Eju.tv:

The date honors the love, dedication, and fundamental role of fathers in the family and society.

Día del Padre: ¿Por qué el 19 de marzo en Bolivia?
Imagen referencial. Captura RR.SS. 

On March 19, Bolivia celebrates Father’s Day, a special occasion that honors the fundamental role of fathers in the family and recognizes their unconditional love and dedication to their children.

The celebration dates back to 1958 when businessman Víctor Handal Salame promoted the recognition of this date. However, it was not until May 24, 1974, during the presidency of Hugo Banzer Suárez, that a supreme decree was issued, officially establishing March 19 as Father’s Day in Bolivia.

The choice of this date is inspired by the figure of Saint Joseph, husband of the Virgin Mary and putative father of Jesus, who is considered a model of fatherhood and whose feast day is celebrated in the Catholic tradition on the same day.

Over the years, Father’s Day in Bolivia has gained greater significance, becoming an opportunity to share moments of family unity and express gratitude and recognition to fathers for their role in the upbringing and education of their children.

On this special day, Bolivian families engage in various activities to honor fathers. In schools, for example, students organize civic events, prepare gifts, and share snacks or lunches as part of the celebrations.

Beyond the celebration, Father’s Day is a time to reflect on the importance of fatherhood and the values passed down from generation to generation, highlighting the love, dedication, and commitment of fathers in their children’s lives.

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