Amid a global landscape in which the traditional understanding of society faces constant secular challenges, Costa Rican legislator Gerald Bogantes, a representative of the ruling Pueblo Soberano Party, has taken a firm step by officially introducing an initiative called the “Law for the Creation and Celebration of National Family Day.” The proposal seeks to establish May 15 each year as an official day to honor and protect the family unit in the Central American country.
From both a theological and social perspective, the family is viewed as the foundational institution established by God, designed to serve as the primary place of provision, moral instruction and love. The bill brings this biblical principle into civil legislation by recognizing the family as the natural and essential foundation of society, in accordance with Article 51 of Costa Rica’s Constitution.
The main goal of the proposal is to strengthen family values, promote peaceful coexistence based on respect and ensure comprehensive protection for families. To accomplish this, the bill calls for the active participation of public institutions, local governments and schools in organizing cultural, community and recreational activities that reinforce family bonds.
In a video message addressed to the public, Bogantes highlighted the educational impact of the proposal.
“This project promotes family values and encourages celebration at both the state level and within public education, where we can promote the family values that are so important,” he said.
Evangelical leadership in Costa Rica’s Congress
The advancement of this type of legislation takes on even greater significance in light of Costa Rica’s recent political developments. Bogantes, who has been outspoken in defending conservative principles, was recently elected to the legislative board of Congress, giving him a strategic role in shaping the country’s political direction.
His rise reflects the growing presence of evangelical leadership in high-level decision-making spaces, where leaders seek to influence public policy related to protecting the family structure.
Bogantes’ message resonates with a segment of the population calling for a strong commitment to ethics and social well-being. He summarized the heart of his initiative by saying, “We need to put the family back at the center of the national conversation. Strong families build a better Costa Rica.”
The effort to restore the family’s place in government agendas is not limited to one country, but is part of a broader regional movement. Across Latin America, the Latin Evangelical Alliance has consistently promoted campaigns and initiatives surrounding the International Day of Families, seeking to raise awareness among Hispanic governments about the importance of creating legislation that protects families.
An international celebration with national impact
The official presentation of the initiative in Costa Rica reflected this spirit of unity. The event received active support from representatives of the Costa Rican Evangelical Alliance Federation, leaders of the Catholic Church, nonprofit organizations and various sectors of civil society. Participants agreed on the need to encourage actions that strengthen and restore the social fabric.
The collaboration among these groups demonstrates that defending the family transcends institutional boundaries. Advocates argue that public policy requires pastoral and community support in order to create lasting transformation, and that protecting the family directly safeguards the spiritual and social future of the next generation.
Originally published by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
