Washington City Mayor Kress Staheli and the City Council have issued a proclamation designating June 20 2026 as Faith, Family, and Patriotism Month. The declaration was signed on June 10, 2026.
Purpose of the proclamation
The proclamation seeks to rededicate the Washington City community to the civic virtues of faith, family, and patriotism.
Declining support for traditional values
The proclamation cites findings from the National Opinion Research Center and the Wall Street Journal indicating a decline in American support for traditional values such as patriotism, family, and faith.
Benefits of spiritual engagement
The city noted that societies valuing these principles often see high rates of volunteerism in both secular and religious causes. Additionally, the document references research suggesting that children raised in environments with spiritual engagement may experience better social, emotional, and behavioral well-being, including lower rates of substance abuse and depression.
Impact of stable family structures
Regarding family structure, the proclamation states that research indicates children raised in stable, married, two-parent households are more likely to achieve economic self-sufficiency and graduate from college, while being less likely to experience poverty or involvement in criminal activity.
Historical references to American virtue
The proclamation includes historical references to James Madison and George Washington regarding the importance of virtue, religion, and morality in supporting political prosperity and liberty.
Commitment to community flourishing
Mayor Staheli and the City Council stated that cultivating virtues such as service to community, devotion to family, and love of country contributes to healthy societies and human flourishing.
