The life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter will be honored this week with a National Day of Mourning and a state funeral.
According to a proclamation from President Joe Biden, the National Day of Mourning will take place on Thursday and coincide with the former president’s funeral in Washington, DC.
Here’s what you need to know about the days to come.
What is a National Day of Mourning?
Although funerals for former presidents have several elements, a day of national mourning is declared by the sitting president to honor the life and legacy of his or her predecessor.
Biden issued a proclamation on Sunday honoring Carter, including calling for a National Day of Mourning on January 9, 2025.
The president asked the public to gather at places of worship to honor Carter’s life and invited mourners around the world to participate.
“I call on the American people to gather on this day in their respective places of worship, to honor the memory of President James Earl Carter, Jr. I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join in us in this action. solemn celebration,” he said.
The date coincides with Carter’s funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC. Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy at the funeral, which will be nationally televised.
The former president was known for spending his post-White House years advocating for human rights and public health.
How will the National Day of Mourning impact federal facilities?
Businesses are not required to close, nor are banks or other establishments.
Federal facilities will close to honor Carter’s memory, and that will include post offices across the country, according to the U.S. Postal Service.
Mail service will not occur Thursday, according to USPS.
The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will both close on January 9 in Carter’s memory.
Other honors expected for Carter
Under U.S. law, flags were flown at half-mast for 30 days to honor Carter.
His body will lie in state in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol for several days before his funeral at the National Cathedral on Jan. 9, allowing mourners to pay their respects to the former president.
NBC Chicago
