July 26, 2024 |
Photo – Silhouette of a cowboy – Courtesy western-cowboy.com
In a rare show of unity, the United States Senate has declared that this Sunday, July 27, 2024, is the National Day of the American Cowboy.
The bipartisan resolution, which the Senate passed unanimously, was introduced by U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., along with their colleagues in the Senate.
The legislation reads in part, “Whereas pioneering men and women, recognized as ‘‘cow boys’’, helped to establish the American West; Whereas the cowboy embodies honesty, integrity, courage, compassion, respect, a strong work ethic, and patriotism; Whereas the cowboy spirit exemplifies strength of character, sound family values, and good common sense; Whereas the cowboy archetype transcends ethnicity, gender, geographic boundaries, and political affiliations; Whereas the cowboy, who lives off the land and works to protect and enhance the environment, is an excellent steward of the land and its creatures.”
The two-page piece of legislation continues, “Whereas the cowboy is a central figure in literature, film, and music and occupies a central place in the public imagination; Whereas the cowboy is an American icon; and Whereas the ongoing contributions made by cowboys and cowgirls to their communities should be recognized and encouraged…..be it resolved that the Senate designates July 27, 2024 as “National Day of the American Cowboy.”
Started in 2005 by the late U.S. Senator Craig Thomas of Wyoming, the National Day of the American Cowboy traditionally coincides each year with Cheyenne Frontier Days. The resolution honors the culture, traditions and values of the American Cowboy way of life that are still alive today.
