WHEREAS, The celebration of Children's Day reminds us that children deserve faith, hope, love, and commitment to their future; and

WHEREAS, Since 1925, Children's Day has been celebrated worldwide to promote the welfare of and mutual understanding and togetherness between the world's children; and

WHEREAS, Professor and author Dr. Jess Lair wrote "Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded"; and

WHEREAS, The Senate recognizes that children represent the future of our state, nation, and world; and

WHEREAS, This body has observed Children's Day since 1995 to commemorate the special place children hold in our hearts and communities and to remind us to keep children central to our efforts; and

WHEREAS, Writer Richard L. Evans noted "While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about"; and

WHEREAS, Washington state's children must be cherished and deserve a nurturing, protective environment where they are able to flourish and realize their full potential; and

WHEREAS, Educator Maria Montessori said "The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence"; and

WHEREAS, The Senate recognizes that every child in Washington state deserves access to quality education, wholesome recreation, excellent health care, and safe communities; and

WHEREAS, Author C.S. Lewis once observed that "Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work"; and

WHEREAS, Children are the leaders of tomorrow, and it is our solemn obligation to instill in them the necessary values, convictions, goodwill, and fortitude so that they can continue the wonderful legacy of freedom, peace, and prosperity inherited from those who came before us; and

WHEREAS, Every child deserves the chance to succeed, and their future success depends on education and guidance from early childhood onward; and

WHEREAS, There can be no better measure of our governance than the way in which we treat our children; and

WHEREAS, This body recognizes that in order to thrive as a state and nation, we must empower children through policies that foster their success; and

WHEREAS, The Senate continues to support the goals of Children's Day and welcomes children into the Senate Chamber so they may witness the legislative process;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate encourage all Washingtonians to celebrate children on Children's Day and throughout the year by spending more quality time with them, by emphasizing their special place in our lives, and by working together daily to strengthen the foundation upon which our children will build and sustain their future.