News Release, NEW YORK CITY – National Handwriting Day is celebrated tomorrow, January 23, 2018. And on this 41st anniversary there is exciting news!  Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA), announces its endorsement of a bi-partisan congressional resolution introduced by Congressman Paul Tonko (New York 20^th Congressional District) and Congressman Leonard Lance (New Jersey 7^th Congressional District). The resolution expresses support for the designation of January 23 as National Handwriting Day; it also recognizes the importance of handwriting for cognitive, artistic and educational benefits.

The congressional resolution, H.Res.654, in addition to expressing support for designation of National Handwriting Day also acknowledges John Hancock, whose birthday is on January 23. His was the first signature on the Declaration of Independence, and Hancock contributed to the overall significance of handwriting. The resolution also emphasizes the educational benefits of handwriting for children, as well as the cognitive development and motor skills benefit.  To view the complete resolution, go to https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hres654.

John Hancock’s signature as it appeared on the Declaration of Independence. Image from wikipedia.org

Established in 1977, on the birthday of America’s most notable scribe, John Hancock, National Handwriting Day designates a day each year to acknowledge the history and importance of penmanship.  The recent congressional recognition further solidifies the value of handwriting in everyday life and how important it is to continue to keep the tradition alive in generations to come.

This year WIMA suggests honoring National Handwriting Day on January 23 by picking up a writing instrument and showing your support through writing. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Craft a note. A handwritten note can make a huge impact on someone’s day – from a quick thank you to a post-it on the mirror, bring a smile to someone today with a genuine thought on paper.
2. Draft a letter.  Letter writing has fallen off with the invention of email. A handwritten letter has much more feeling and emotion and can more effectively communicate one’s feelings.
3. Transcribe your thoughts. Take a moment to jot down your thoughts today in writing and you may surprise yourself, writing it down may help you work through an inner conflict.
4. Practice your signature.  Channel your inner John Hancock and practice your signature, there is still a place today to sign on the dotted line.
5. Create art. Handwriting extends to art, so whether it’s a crayon, colored pencil or marker, draw something that makes you smile.

For additional information on National Handwriting Day visit http://www.pencilsandpens.org/national_handwriting_day and https://www.facebook.com/WritingInstrumentManufacturersAssociation/.