Loving Day, on June 12, commemorates the landmark 1967 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Loving v. Virginia, which struck down state laws banning interracial marriage. The case is named after Richard and Mildred Loving, a married couple whose love and quiet determination changed American law. Today, Loving Day celebrates multicultural families and the freedom to marry.
History of Loving Day
Richard Loving, a white man, and Mildred Jeter, a woman of Black and Native American heritage, grew up in Caroline County, Virginia. In 1958, they married in Washington, D.C., because interracial marriage was illegal in Virginia. Weeks after returning home, they were arrested. They pleaded guilty and were sentenced to one year in jail, suspended on the condition that they leave Virginia for 25 years.
The Lovings moved to Washington, D.C., but missed their family and community. In 1963, Mildred wrote to Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, who referred her to the American Civil Liberties Union. ACLU lawyers took the case to the Supreme Court.
On June 12, 1967, the Court ruled unanimously that laws banning interracial marriage violated the Fourteenth Amendment. At the time, such laws still existed in 16 states. In 2004, Ken Tanabe founded Loving Day as an annual celebration and educational project.
Why Loving Day Matters
Loving v. Virginia was a major civil rights victory that affirmed marriage as a fundamental right.
The Lovings' story shows how ordinary people can bring about extraordinary change.
Today, interracial and multicultural families are a growing part of American life. Loving Day encourages people to learn this history, fight prejudice and celebrate diverse families.
The Lovings did not see themselves as activists; they simply wanted to live together as a family in their hometown. Mildred Loving later said she hoped their case would help others. Their story is a powerful example of how the courts can protect individual rights and how personal courage can change the law for millions of people.
How to Celebrate Loving Day
- Learn the history: read about Richard and Mildred Loving.
- Watch a film: see a documentary or drama about the case.
- Host a gathering: celebrate with friends and family.
- Share family stories: talk about multicultural heritage.
- Support civil rights: learn about ongoing efforts for equality.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share the Lovings' story as part of diversity and inclusion learning, or invite employees to share family traditions if they wish. In classrooms, students can study the case, read Mildred Loving's letter, and discuss how the Constitution protects rights. Younger students can read picture books about diverse families. At home, families can watch a documentary, look at family photos and stories, or talk about how laws have changed over time. Celebrate the love and diversity in your own community.
Fun Facts About Loving Day
- The Lovings married in Washington, D.C., in 1958.
- The Supreme Court ruled unanimously on June 12, 1967.
- Sixteen states still had bans on interracial marriage in 1967.
Loving Day FAQs
When is Loving Day?
Loving Day is June 12.
What was Loving v. Virginia?
A 1967 Supreme Court case that struck down state bans on interracial marriage.
Who were Richard and Mildred Loving?
A married couple from Virginia whose case reached the Supreme Court.
Who founded Loving Day?
Ken Tanabe, in 2004.