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Daisy Gatson Bates Day

Honor Daisy Gatson Bates Day - remember this civil rights heroine and crusader for education who made a difference!

Monday

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEThird Monday in February

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYBlack History

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On February 19, we honor a poignant figure in American civil rights history during Daisy Gatson Bates Day. On this day, we commemorate and celebrate the life and mission of the brave human rights champion, Daisy Gatson Bates. Born in 1914 in Huttig, Arkansas, Bates was a driving force in the historic integration of public schools in the city of Little Rock, in the Harrison v. South Pinellas Board of Education case in 1954. This day is not only a tribute to Bates herself, but also a reminder of the power of continued struggle for equality in education and beyond. Let's remember and rejoice in Daisy Gatson Bates' contributions, and renew our own commitment to fight for justice!

TIMELINE

Daisy Gatson Bates Day Timeline

Birth of Daisy Bates

Daisy Gatson Bates, a significant figure in the American Civil Rights Movement, was born in Huttig, Arkansas.

Bates Moves to Little Rock

Bates and her husband moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where they operated a weekly African-American newspaper, the Arkansas State Press.

Integration Lawsuit Victory

Bates played a crucial role in the integration lawsuit, Harrison v. South Pinellas Board of Education, challenging segregation in public schools.

Little Rock Nine's School Integration

Bates guided the nine African-American students, known as the Little Rock Nine, during their attempt to integrate Central High School in Little Rock.

Publication of her Autobiography

Bates' autobiography, "The Long Shadow of Little Rock," wins the National Book Award for nonfiction and is reissued on its 30th anniversary.

Establishment of Daisy Gatson Bates Day

The state of Arkansas officially established Daisy Gatson Bates Day as a state holiday, to be celebrated on the third Monday in February.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Daisy Gatson Bates Day

Learn and teach others about Daisy Gatson Bates

As a parent, teacher, or student, use this day to learn about Daisy Bates' immense contributions to civil rights and education. Share what you've learned with others around you to cultivate an understanding and appreciation for her work.

DONATE

Donate to civil rights and education causes

Daisy Bates dedicated her life to fighting for civil rights and equal education. Celebrate her memory by donating to civil rights or education organizations that continue her legacy.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a march or rally for educational equality

Around Daisy Gatson Bates Day, some communities organize marches and rallies to honor her cause. Show your support by joining in and advocating for equal access to quality education.

READ

Read books about the civil rights movement

To get a more in-depth understanding of the struggle for civil rights and education equality, read books that discuss these topics. You can also read books written by Daisy Bates herself to gain a first-person perspective on events.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to highlight the contributions of Daisy Bates and celebrate her work. Use hashtags related to education rights, civil rights, and Daisy Gatson Bates Day to join the wider online conversation.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Daisy Gatson Bates Day is Important

It encourages action towards racial justice

On this day, many communities organize marches, rallies, and other events to honor Bates's legacy and continue her fight for civil rights. It's a wonderful opportunity to engage in these initiatives, learn more about the civil rights movement, and take active steps towards achieving racial justice.

It honors Daisy Bates' significant contribution to civil rights

Daisy Gatson Bates played a crucial role in integrating public schools in Little Rock, a landmark event in the American civil rights movement. Honoring her on this day is a way of acknowledging the immense courage and resilience she displayed in her fight for equality.

It raises awareness about the importance of education equality

Honor Daisy Gatson Bates Day also serves as a reminder of the critical importance of access to quality education for all. It presents an opportunity to advocate for education equality, a cause that Bates dedicated her life to.

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