"This resolution is a reminder that children need and deserve our love and attention," Grassley said. "Today's young generation will be tomorrow's leaders. As such, it's vitally important that we spend time with our kids to guide them in the right direction, recognize their achievements and encourage their dreams."
According to 2000 U.S. Census figures, children under the age of 18 account for 25 percent of Iowa's population.
Following is the resolution cosponsored by Grassley to designate June 3, 2001 as ?National Child's Day':
Whereas June 3, 2001, the first Sunday of June, falls between Mother's Day and Father's Day;
Whereas each child is unique, is a blessing, and holds a distinct place in the family unit;
Whereas the people of the United States should celebrate children as the most valuable asset of the United States;
Whereas the children represent the future, hope, and inspiration of the United States;
Whereas the children of the United States should be allowed to feel that their ideas and dreams will be respected because adults in the United States take time to listen;
Whereas many children of the United States face crises of grave proportions, especially as they enter adolescent years; Whereas it is important for parents to spend time listening to their children on a daily basis;
Whereas modern societal and economic demands often pull the family apart;
Whereas, whenever practicable, it is important for both parents to be involved in their child's life;
Whereas encouragement should be given to families to set aside special time for all family members to engage together in family activities;
Whereas adults in the United States should have an opportunity to reminisce about their youth to recapture some of the fresh insight, innocence, and dreams that they may have lost through the years;
Whereas the designation of a day to commemorate the children of the United States will provide an opportunity to emphasize to children the importance of their developing an ability to make the choices necessary to distance themselves from impropriety and to contribute to their communities;
Whereas the people of the United States should emphasize to children the importance of family life, education, and spiritual qualities;
Whereas because children are the responsibility of all people of the United States, everyone should celebrate children, whose questions, laughter, and dreams are important to the existence of the United States; and
Whereas the designation of a day to commemorate our children will emphasize to the people of the United States the importance of the role of the child within the family and society: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Senate?
(1) designates June 3, 2001, as `National Child's Day'; and
(2) requests the President to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.