Delaware Governor Announces Charles Darwin Day

Carrie Dedrick | Updated: Jan 27, 2015

Delaware Governor Announces Charles Darwin Day

Citizens in Delaware will observe “Charles Darwin Day” on Feb. 12 after an official declaration of the state holiday by Gov. Jack Markell. 

Charles Darwin was the scientist who introduced the theory of evolution, or how organisms change over time. Feb. 12 was Darwin’s birthday. 

The Huffington Post reports that Markell said evolution is "the foundation of modern biology, an essential tool in understanding the development of life on earth” and the holiday would be "...a time to reflect and celebrate the importance of his scientific achievements."

The holiday was requested by a member of the Delaware Atheist Meetup group; according to state law, Delaware organizations have the right to request recognition for a day, week or month.

Some groups first began observing Charles Darwin Day in 1980. Two liberal lawmakers have proposed legislation to create a national holiday but were not successful, despite some interest from Democrats.

Publication date: January 27, 2015 



Delaware Governor Announces Charles Darwin Day