The phrase “blue for December” refers to supporting law enforcement officers during the month of December by displaying blue lights and decorations. This is done as a way to show appreciation and honor police officers, sheriff’s deputies, state troopers, and other members of law enforcement. The concept originated in the United States but has spread to other countries as well.
December is a month when law enforcement officers work long hours in difficult conditions to keep communities safe. Displaying blue lights and decorations is a way for citizens to demonstrate their support and say thank you to those who protect and serve. It also helps raise awareness about the sacrifices made by law enforcement professionals.
History of Blue for December
The exact origins of Blue for December are unclear, but it appears to have started in the early 2010s in the United States. One of the first documented uses was in December 2014 when the city of Corpus Christi, Texas launched its “Operation Blue December” where residents were encouraged to tie blue ribbons on trees or decorate with blue lights.
The concept gained more popularity after the high-profile shootings of police officers in 2016. That year, groups like Blue Lives Matter encouraged people to use blue holiday lights and decorations to honor law enforcement. More police departments, city governments, and grassroots organizations began promoting Blue for December as an annual tradition.
By 2018, Blue for December was being observed across the majority of US states. Many police departments now partner with local residents and businesses each December to light up their cities in blue. The blue lights shine as a constant reminder of support through the holiday season.
How People Observe Blue for December
There are many ways that people, businesses, and organizations observe Blue for December. Some of the most common ways to show support include:
– Displaying blue holiday lights, bows, wreaths, and other decorations. Blue bulbs can be used on trees and houses, or blue decorations can be added to existing displays.
– Wearing blue clothing and ribbons. Some workplaces and schools even have “wear blue” days in December.
– Placing blue candles in windowsills to shine light outward.
– Putting up blue lawn signs with messages like “We support the police” or Thin Blue Line flags.
– City landmarks like town halls, courthouses, bridges, and monuments illuminated in blue.
– Businesses that change their normal lighting to blue for the month of December.
– Community tree lighting ceremonies that use blue lights.
– Leaving small gifts of appreciation like baked goods or gift cards at local police stations.
– Sharing messages of thanks and support on social media with the hashtags #BlueforDecember #BlueLightstoRemember
– Organizing fundraising campaigns for charities that benefit law enforcement families.
Growth of Blue for December
While Blue for December originated in the US, it has now spread internationally as well. Here are some examples of its growth globally:
| Year | Blue for December Observations |
|---|---|
| 2016 | First seen in major cities across the US like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. |
| 2017 | Spreads to smaller cities/towns, rural areas, and Native American reservations. |
| 2018 | Observed in majority of US states, plus cities like Toronto, Canada. |
| 2019 | Continued growth in US and Canada. Also seen in the UK, Australia, and Ireland. |
| 2020 | Widespread observance across US and Canada. Additional growth in the UK, Ireland, Australia, France, and Germany. |
| 2021 | Further global expansion including India, parts of Africa, and South America. |
As you can see, support has continued to build year after year. Many locations now participate annually in tribute to law enforcement officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty. The blue lights shine as a solemn reminder of their sacrifice.
Debates About Blue for December
While Blue for December has been embraced in many communities, it has also faced some criticisms and sparked debate. Some of the concerns raised include:
– Is it an overly political act that glorifies law enforcement without nuance? Critics argue that it simplifies complex issues around policing.
– Does it risk alienating marginalized groups who have faced police brutality and discrimination? There are concerns that it’s avery “pro-police” symbol.
– Are there better ways to show support for officers while still advocating for reforms? Some suggest supporting specific charities instead.
– Does overuse diminish the meaning? If everyone displays blue lights, does it lose significance?
– Is it unfair to expect officers to sacrifice themselves? The blue lights could be seen as promoting that expectation.
Proponents argue that Blue for December is meant to honor officers injured or killed in the line of duty, not make political statements. They say officers often feel demoralized and showing public appreciation can boost morale. They also point out that police departments have diverse officers who are valued by their communities.
There are valid perspectives on both sides of this debate. In many places, Blue for December has been embraced as a unifying symbol of peace, protection, and shared humanity between police and citizens. But communities can thoughtfully reflect on how to uplift officers while still addressing complex societal issues.
Blue for December Around the World
Here is an overview of how Blue for December has been observed in different countries:
United States
The US has the most established tradition of Blue for December observances. Participation includes lighting displays, community events, social media campaigns, and selling blue decoration merchandise. Major retailers like Lowes and Walmart stock blue bulbs and lights to meet customer demand.
Canada
Canada also widely supports Blue for December across its provinces. Efforts are focused on lighting municipal and private buildings blue. For example, Niagara Falls on the Ontario/New York border shines blue each December.
United Kingdom
More UK police forces join Blue for December annually. In 2021, over 75 forces took part by lighting stations and other police buildings blue for the month. Some forces also hold community events to interact with the public.
Australia
Police stations and landmarks in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth have adopted Blue for December lighting tributes. Some neighborhood groups also organize blue decoration drives annually.
France
France participated for the first time in 2020, lighting sites like the Arc de Triomphe blue in honor of police. However, uptake is still limited compared to other countries.
Germany
Some German cities like Berlin have turned buildings blue for December, but the practice is relatively new there. More growth may occur if police and local governments become active promoters.
India
Several Indian states observed Blue for December for the first time in 2021. It was mainly seen in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. However, support is still limited as the concept is new.
South Africa
A few South African cities joined Blue for December in 2021, though awareness remains low. Support has primarily come through community and business displays of blue lights.
Conclusion
Blue for December has become an established annual tradition in many parts of the world. The concept originated in the US in 2014, but has since spread internationally. However, implementation looks different in each country and community.
Some use Blue for December as a way to uplift police morale during a difficult month. Others see it as a solemn memorial for fallen officers. Despite some debates around the practice, it ultimately reflects a desire for mutual understanding between law enforcement professionals and the communities they serve. For many, the blue lights symbolize a shared hope for peace and safety.
