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National Heroes' Day (TCI)

May 26
National Heroes' Day

National Heroes' Day in the Turks and Caicos Islands is a public holiday dedicated to honoring the contributions and legacies of national figures who have significantly shaped the islands' history, development, and identity.

When is National Heroes' Day?

National Heroes' Day is observed annually on the last Monday in May.

The following is the list of National Heroes' Day from 2020 to 2049.

HolidayDateWeekday
National Heroes' DayMay 25, 2020Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 31, 2021Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 30, 2022Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 29, 2023Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 27, 2024Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 26, 2025Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 25, 2026Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 31, 2027Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 29, 2028Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 28, 2029Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 27, 2030Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 26, 2031Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 31, 2032Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 30, 2033Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 29, 2034Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 28, 2035Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 26, 2036Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 25, 2037Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 31, 2038Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 30, 2039Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 28, 2040Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 27, 2041Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 26, 2042Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 25, 2043Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 30, 2044Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 29, 2045Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 28, 2046Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 27, 2047Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 25, 2048Monday
National Heroes' DayMay 31, 2049Monday

The History of National Heroes' Day?

National Heroes' Day was established by the government of the Turks and Caicos Islands to celebrate those who played pivotal roles in shaping the territory's social, political, and cultural life.

It replaced Columbus Day as a public holiday, aligning with broader Caribbean trends to celebrate local heritage over colonial history. The shift aimed to foster national pride and appreciation for the achievements of Turks and Caicos Islanders. Other heroes may be recognized in the future for their contributions across education, governance, cultural preservation or social advocacy.

The first person officially named a National Hero was J.A.G.S. McCartney, the country's first Chief Minister, recognized for his bold leadership and advocacy for self-determination.

J.A.G.S. McCartney was born on June 30, 1945 and died on May 9, 1980 in a plane crash in New Jersey, USA. McCartney was a visionary leader and activist who championed the cause of self-governance, youth empowerment, and social reform in the 1970s. He became the first Chief Minister of the Turks and Caicos Islands in 1976 at the age of 31, under the new constitution that allowed for elected governance.

During his tenure, he worked to strengthen local leadership and lay the foundation for a more autonomous and people-centered government.

Details

Date:
May 26
Event Category: