George W. Bush’s ‘Jesus Day’ proclamation draws some flak
Religion Today, August 10, 2000
George W. Bush is being criticized for declaring a “Jesus Day.” The Texas governor had signed a seemingly ceremonial proclamation declaring June 10 to be Jesus Day and urging Texans to “follow Christ’s example by performing good works in their communities and neighborhoods.” The event is part of the annual March for Jesus, a day of public parades and works of charity that this year involved 10 million people in 150 countries.
The proclamation received little attention at the time it was signed, but word has spread through e-mail, Jewish newspapers and church-state separationists. The Republican presidential nominee is being called insensitive to non-Christians and accused of disregard for the First Amendment, The New York Times reported. Bush’s office has been receiving letters and email messages from people outraged by the Jesus Day proclamation.
Bush also has signed proclamations supporting Bahai centenary day, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and a Hanukkah celebration, a Bush spokesman said.
The proclamation reads: “Throughout the world, people of all religions recognize Jesus Christ as an example of love, compassion, sacrifice and service. Reaching out to the poor, the suffering, and the marginalized, he provided moral leadership that continues to inspire countless men, women, and children today. To honor his life and teachings, Christians of all races and denominations have joined together to designate June 10 as Jesus Day. Jesus Day challenges people to follow Christ’s example by performing good works in their communities and neighborhoods.”
Tom Pelton, founder and organizer of March for Jesus in the United States, said, “To me it would be a stretch to see that proclamation as being demeaning toward other religions. It’s meant to point out that the things that Jesus taught are consistent with what many religions teach. Instead of Jesus being a divisive name in the community, we are hoping to establish His name as a point of unity among people.”