Yellow Ribbon - Hope, support, and remembrance!
The phrase most famously associated with the yellow ribbon awareness is
"Tie a yellow ribbon 'round the ole oak tree". This phrase originated from a popular 1973 song and became widely known as a symbol of hope and the safe return of a loved one.
Common Phrases and Meanings
The yellow ribbon is a versatile symbol that has been adopted for several different causes, each with its own associated phrases or meanings:
- Military Support: The most common association in the United States is with supporting military troops, especially those who are deployed, prisoners of war (POWs), or missing in action (MIA). The phrase often seen with this usage is "Support our troops". The ribbons tied around trees or worn on lapels are a visual shorthand for the hope of their safe return home.
- Suicide Prevention: The yellow ribbon is an international emblem for suicide prevention, particularly for young people. In this context, it symbolizes hope and the message that help is available.
- Childhood Cancer Awareness: During September, which is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the yellow ribbon is used to raise awareness for children battling cancer.
- Missing Persons: The ribbon is also used to raise visibility and compassion for families of missing persons, representing hope for their return. The phrase "Bring Them Home Now" has been used in specific hostage situations.
- Other Causes: The yellow ribbon is also used for awareness of conditions such as endometriosis, bladder cancer, sarcoma, and spina bifida.
In essence, while different causes use the symbol, the overarching meaning of the yellow ribbon is hope, support, and remembrance.
