Make Social Media Day Official in Your City This Year

Make Social Media Day Official in Your City This Year

Social Media Day has taken major strides since its launch in 2010. What started as a few hundred Meetup events has become a major global celebration.


More than 20 cities have officially recognized June 30 as Social Media Day, including Silver City, New Mexico; Tulsa, Okla.; Waco, Texas; and Ottawa, Canada. In 2011, Arizona became the first U.S. state to do so, and other states such as Nevada and Missouri have since followed suit.


See also: Mark Your Calendars for the 5th Annual Social Media Day


In order for your city or state to officially recognize Social Media Day this year, submit a proclamation request form. Here's what you need to know.
How to submit a proclamation request


Since some states require you to fill out the proclamation request five to six weeks before the event, we recommend submitting as quickly as possible.


Call your local City Hall and ask about proclamation information directly. Even if you're able to find the form online, the direct conversation still helps things go more smoothly.


It's important to engage a city representative in every way possible, such as on Facebook, Twitter, phone calls and email. If anyone you know has contacts in the governor's office (a county commissioner, a city council representative, etc.), reach out to let them know about planning Social Media Day.

Make Social Media Day Official in Your City This Year

When talking to officials, identify yourself as the "Mashable Social Media Day organizer," but let them know you're not a representative from Mashable. Proclamations aren't made to honor any individual or corporation; rather, they are granted to recognize an event that unites community members.
Some states require proclamations to be evaluated and sponsored by state agencies. If your city or state requires this, we recommend reaching out to your City Chamber of Commerce or leveraging local government contacts.
If you cannot find a state agency to sponsor your proclamation, you can also opt for a commemorative message. This is a non-legal document designed to acknowledge events or special occasions.
Proclamations in some states do not automatically renew. When requesting a proclamation renewal, remember to include a copy of the past proclamation with your application.

What to include in your proclamation request

When filling out a request form, you will be asked to propose the body text for the proclamation. This text usually includes four to six “Whereas” clauses. Make sure your proclamation text answers the questions listed below; if you need more examples, find links to past proclamations below.
Why is it important that your specific city or state celebrate Social Media Day?
How will your city benefit from the proclamation?
How does your city use social media to strengthen its community?
What will your city's Social Media Day celebration entail?