The National Day of the Cowboy is coming up soon July 26(the fourth Saturday of July)

The national day officially began in 2008, when the National Day of the Cowboy resolution passed in both the Senate and the House, though there had been smaller state and local commemorations throughout the western states for several years. The language of Senate Resolution 450, which originally designated July 26, 2008 as “National Day of the Cowboy” reads as follows:

“Whereas pioneering men and woman, recognized as “cowboys,” helped 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 is an excellent steward of the land and its creatures, who lives off of the land and works to protect and enhance the environment;

Whereas cowboy traditions have been a part of American culture for generations;

Whereas the cowboy continues to be an important part of the economy through the work of approximately 727,000 ranchers in all 50 of the United States that contribute to the economic well-being of nearly every county in the Nation;

Whereas annual attendance at professional and working rand rodeo events exceeds 27,000,000 fans and rodeo is the 7th most-watched sport in the Nation;

Whereas membership and participation in rodeo and other organizations that promote and encompass the livelihood of a cowboy span every generation and transcend race and gender;

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: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate –

1) designates July 26, 2008, as “National Day of the Cowboy”; and

2) encourages the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”

https://blogs.loc.gov/folklife/2024/07/national-day-of-the-cowboy/