Why we need a Memorial Day for civilian victims of war
The article discusses the need for a Memorial Day to honor civilian victims of war, highlighting the growing disconnect between military and civilian experiences. It emphasizes that while military personnel are remembered, countless civilians suffer and die in conflicts without recognition. The author argues that as the nature of warfare evolves, so too should our memorial practices to include all victims of war.
- ▪Memorial Day was first observed on May 30, 1868, to honor Union soldiers who died in the Civil War.
- ▪The gap between those who remember Memorial Day and those who celebrate it with festivities is widening.
- ▪This year, Memorial Day coincides with ongoing conflicts that have resulted in significant civilian casualties, particularly in Iran.
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Future PerfectWhy we need a Memorial Day for civilian victims of warNon-combatants bear the brunt of modern war’s toll, but we don’t know how to memorialize them.by Bryan WalshUpdated May 25, 2026, 10:00 AM UTCShareGiftHeadstones and American flags are seen at the Arlington National Cemetery during the Memorial Day, which is held annually to honor those who died while serving in the armed forces. Celal Gunes/Anadolu Agency via Getty ImagesBryan Walsh is a senior editorial director at Vox overseeing the climate teams and the Unexplainable and The Gray Area podcasts. He is also the editor of Vox’s Future Perfect section and writes the Good News newsletter.
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