In a world that seems increasingly ruled by propaganda and misinformation constantly spread through social media, the world needs National Freethought Day now more than ever. Modern society requires critical thinking, and this holiday is designed to help people see the importance of using evidence-based reasoning to make decisions.

This holiday is observed on October 12th every year and encourages people to gather their facts from trusted sources and make their decisions based on reason, logic, and science.

The History of National Freethought Day

This holiday was created around the turn of the 21st century and was publicly observed in 2002 in Sacramento, California. It was dubbed as a festival of reason and included speakers and live entertainment.

This holiday was created by several different groups, including the Secular Coalition for America, the Freethought Society, and the American Humanist Association. The date of this holiday was chosen because it is the date when Massachusetts Governor William Phips sent a letter to the Privy Council of the British monarchs during the Salem Witch Trials in 1692.

His letter expressed concern about the “spectral” evidence used during the trial and how the whole process had devolved into a mockery of justice. Eventually, the tone of the trials changed, and although spectral evidence was still being allowed, it was quickly discounted. People convicted as “witches” were pardoned by Phips after the trial.

Observing National Freethought Day

All that is required for anyone to celebrate National Freethought Day is for them to apply evidence and reason to any piece of information they come across — regardless of whether that piece of information is delivered by Aunt Rose or through social media.

They can also spread the word about this holiday using the hashtag #NationalFreethoughtDay in their social media posts for the day.