This generation’s young people are undeniably some of the most gifted, educated, and talented individuals our Nation has ever known, showcasing their remarkable capabilities across various fields. They serve as the vital kite strings that keep our national ambitions aloft, inspiring future generations. On National Child’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to building a future truly worthy of their highest aspirations, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to succeed.
My Administration has also worked diligently to give families some well-deserved breathing room so that they can care for their children without the constant worry of how they will pay the bills. My American Rescue Plan expanded the Child Tax Credit, a monumental step that helped reduce child poverty by nearly half across the Nation, lifting millions of children out of hardship. That law also made our Nation’s largest investment in child care ever, allowing hundreds of thousands of child care providers to keep their doors open and continue providing essential care to families. I signed the Inflation Reduction Act, which has saved millions of families an average of $800 per year on their health insurance premiums, directly alleviating financial burdens. My Administration has raised pay for early childhood educators across the country who are participating in the Head Start program, recognizing their invaluable role in shaping young minds. Furthermore, we modernized the Thrifty Food Plan for the first time in nearly five decades, allowing millions more families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits to afford nutritious foods that foster healthy growth and development.
Securing the health and safety of children has always been a fundamental priority for my Administration. I signed the most significant gun safety law in nearly 30 years, a crucial step towards a future where no student or child has to live in fear of the devastating impact of gun violence. That law also made the largest investment in youth mental health ever, enabling schools across the country to train and hire new mental health counselors, ensuring every child has access to the support they need. At the same time, we have made it easier for schools to leverage Medicaid to deliver critical health care services to children. Moreover, we are actively working to support LGBTQI+ children and families by safeguarding their access to health care and preventing harmful practices like conversion therapy, fostering an inclusive environment for all children.
My Administration has also been dedicated to addressing the existential threat of climate change — a critical task to secure our children’s futures. My Inflation Reduction Act made the most significant investment in climate action ever, which includes essential funding to provide communities with cleaner air and drinking water, while also protecting them from the harmful effects of pollution. My Bipartisan Infrastructure Law aims to replace every lead pipe in America, ensuring that families can turn on the faucet and drink clean, safe water without concern. Additionally, my Administration is proud to have conserved more than 45 million acres of our Nation’s lands and waters, making certain they can be cherished and enjoyed by generations for years to come.
On National Child’s Day, we recommit to ensuring that every child in America has the opportunity to pursue the limits of their talents and ambitions, and we uplift them as the leaders and doers of the future, ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 20, 2024, as National Child’s Day. I call upon all government officials, educators, volunteers, and all the people of the United States of America to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities focused on the well-being of our children.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
How can policymakers ensure that the needs of marginalized children are prioritized in future legislation?
**Interview with Education Advocate Sarah Thompson on National Child’s Day**
**Editor:** Welcome, Sarah! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the significance of National Child’s Day and recent efforts to uplift our young people in the nation.
**Sarah Thompson:** Thank you for having me! It’s an honor to talk about such an important topic.
**Editor:** The administration has praised the current generation of children and young people as some of the most gifted we’ve ever seen. In your opinion, what are some key factors contributing to their success?
**Sarah Thompson:** Absolutely, this generation is incredibly talented and has access to resources and information that previous generations didn’t. Factors like technology, access to education, and increased awareness around mental health are huge contributors. Additionally, supportive policies like the expanded Child Tax Credit create a more conducive environment for families, allowing children to thrive.
**Editor:** Speaking of support, the American Rescue Plan has had a notable impact on child poverty rates. Can you elaborate on how these economic measures are reshaping the lives of young people?
**Sarah Thompson:** Certainly! The expansion of the Child Tax Credit was a game changer, lifting millions of children out of poverty. Coupling that with investments in child care has provided families with the stability they need. When parents don’t have to worry constantly about finances, they can invest more time and energy into nurturing their children’s talents and ambitions.
**Editor:** Health and safety seem to be prioritized in recent legislation, especially concerning gun safety and mental health. How do you see these laws affecting children’s overall well-being?
**Sarah Thompson:** These laws are vital. The most significant gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years is a monumental step toward creating safer environments for children. Alongside that, the investment in youth mental health allows schools to hire counselors who can provide vital support. This focus ensures that children are not only safe but also have the necessary emotional support to navigate today’s challenges.
**Editor:** There’s also a pointed effort to promote inclusivity and support LGBTQI+ children. Why is this aspect especially critical at this juncture?
**Sarah Thompson:** Inclusivity is essential for fostering a safe environment for all children. Supporting LGBTQI+ children by safeguarding their access to health care and protecting them from harmful practices sends a strong message that every child deserves respect and support. When all children feel valued and accepted, they can thrive academically and socially.
**Editor:** as we reflect on National Child’s Day, what message do you hope resonates with policymakers and the public?
**Sarah Thompson:** I hope that everyone recognizes the potential of our youth and the responsibility we have to nurture it. Investing in their future is not just a moral imperative but essential for the growth of our society. Let’s continue to unite efforts to ensure that every child has the tools and opportunities they need to succeed and inspire future generations.
**Editor:** Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your insights. Here’s to a brighter future for our children!
**Sarah Thompson:** Thank you! It’s a collective effort, and every step counts toward making a difference.
