The Country will observe a National Day of Mourning on January 9th to honor the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, who passed away on December 20th at the age of 100. The day coincides with Carter’s state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral, where President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy to celebrate Carter’s life of service and moral leadership.
President Biden’s proclamation officially designating the National Day of Mourning emphasizes Carter’s transformative impact on the nation and the world. Biden highlighted Carter’s unwavering commitment to human rights, global peace, and public service, describing him as “a man of character, courage, and compassion, whose lifetime of service defined him as one of the most influential statesmen in our history.”
The proclamation reflects Biden’s deep admiration for Carter, the only citizen from Peach State to hold the nation’s highest office, whose work as President and humanitarian has left an enduring legacy. In addition to directing federal offices and agencies to close for the day, Biden’s order calls for flags to remain at half-staff for 30 days and encourages Americans to gather in places of worship to honor Carter’s memory. The President also invited global participation in this solemn observance, recognizing Carter’s profound influence on international affairs.
“Through his extraordinary moral leadership, President Carter lived a noble life full of meaning and purpose,” Biden’s proclamation states, underscoring Carter’s legacy as a champion of peace, a steward of human rights, and a leader guided by humility and faith.
While not a federal holiday, the National Day of Mourning will bring adjustments to various services and institutions. Federal departments and agencies will be closed, though essential personnel for national security and defense may still report to work. The U.S. Postal Service will suspend regular operations, though limited package deliveries may occur. The Supreme Court building will also close, as ordered by Chief Justice John Roberts.
The financial sector will observe modifications as well. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will halt trading for the day, with Nasdaq holding a moment of silence at 9:20 a.m. EST. The bond market will close early at 2 p.m. EST, honoring Carter’s legacy with a gesture of national respect.
President Biden’s decision to designate January 9th as a National Day of Mourning reflects his commitment to recognizing the significant contributions of leaders like Carter, who dedicated their lives to service and left an indelible mark on the nation. The last national day of mourning, held in December 2018 for President George H.W. Bush, similarly honored a leader who served with distinction.
Carter’s legacy includes the establishment of the Department of Education and the Department of Energy, advancements in conservation, and his instrumental role in brokering the 1978 Camp David Accords. His post-presidency work further solidified his reputation as a global humanitarian, tackling issues such as disease eradication and housing insecurity.
As the nation pauses to reflect on Carter’s life and legacy, Biden’s proclamation serves as a unifying moment, inviting Americans to come together in remembrance of a leader who embodied the best of the American spirit.
