In 1991 in San Francisco, a mayoral proclamation decreed that October 9 of every year would be Messenger Appreciation Day.  Today 10-9 Day is celebrated informally all over the world. Last year Toronto officially proclaimed 10-9 Day for the second year. Cities such as Chicago, Washington DC, Calgary, Montreal and Vancouver made similar proclamations. This year more cities are expected to join the celebration on Friday October 8 (10-9 on 10-8). Some cities may choose to celebrate all week from 10-4 to 10-9.

Cities celebrate because they're beginning to recognize the value of their messengers as fast, efficient , and confidential deliverers of information. Couriers are hailed as environmental air saving athletes. Last year San Francisco's Mayor Willie Brown personally honoured messengers at the Wall. In Toronto, Councillor Jack Layton made a special visit to Temperance Street's courier community at 'Spreads to deliver the city's message.

Messenger Appreciation Day acknowledges some of the many benefits bicycle couriers bring to our cities. We reduce toxic emissions in the downtown core, take up less space on the road and do less damage to the roads. They increase the safety of pedestrians and aid charities. As ambassadors of goodwill, we hold doors, give directions, catch thieves, report accidents, retrieve stolen property and hunt down owners of lost items. We provide a value added service that continuously improving firms seek out as a means to reduce costs and improve efficiency. And we are year round cyclists who promote the bicycle as a viable form of transportation and economic development.

Messenger Appreciation Day (10-9 day)

back to MIH