When this publication was founded, it was done so in lockstep with an effort to create a nationally recognized holiday celebrating one of America’s most dearly held icons: The cowboy.
Between then and now, there’s developed a debate over ownership of such a feat and what it should rightly be called. We’re not interested in such debates.
Rather, our interests remain true to their roots and to the tradition set forth by the first congressional bill (2006 Sen. Res. 371) designating the American cowboy be honored on the fourth Saturday in July.
In 2022, the United States Senate again unanimously voted to recognize the people of the cowboy and ranching communities across this great nation. To pay tribute to the men and women who, right now, are in the dog days of summer—praying for rain, beating back ever-present fire dangers, doctoring foolish steers and wild mama cows aboard homegrown mounts, all while looking earnestly toward that once-a-year sale, when the budget lines hopefully align as they should and bank notes can be tended to.
To honor those who believe in and adhere to a higher code of conduct. One that requires hard work, patriotism, godliness, and humility. And more.
However you refer to it, wherever you choose to spend it, all we ask is that today, July 23, 2022, you tip your hat to those riding from daybreak until the work is done to provide for their families and ours.
Whereas the cowboy spirit exemplifies strength of character, sound family values, and good common sense;
S. Res. 686; June 22, 2022
Or, in the words of the 2022 Senate Resolution 686:
Designating July 23, 2022, as “National Day of the American Cowboy”.
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
June 22, 2022
Mr. Barrasso (for himself, Ms. Cortez Masto, Mr. Cramer, Mr. Crapo, Ms. Ernst, Mr. Grassley, Mr. Hickenlooper, Mr. Hoeven, Mr. Inhofe, Mr. Kelly, Mr. Kennedy, Ms. Lummis, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Moran, Mr. Risch, Mr. Romney, Mr. Rounds, Mr. Tester, Mr. Thune, and Mr. Cornyn) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary
July 20, 2022
Committee discharged; considered and agreed to
RESOLUTION
Designating July 23, 2022, as “National Day of the American Cowboy”.
Whereas pioneering men and women, recognized as “cowboys”, 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;
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 many thousands of ranchers across the United States who contribute to the economic well-being of every State;
Whereas millions of fans watch professional and working ranch rodeo events annually, making rodeo one of the most-watched sports in the United States;
Whereas membership and participation in rodeo and other organizations that promote and encompass the livelihood of cowboys 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 23, 2022, as “National Day of the American Cowboy”; and
(2) encourages the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.