Senator Newman’s Resolution Making June 24th “Play Day” in California Passes Senate
Sacramento, Calif. – A resolution establishing June 24, 2023 as “Play Day” in the State of California was unanimously passed by the California State Senate today by Senator Josh Newman, in connection with his related legislation (SB 291: “Recess for All,” which is pending in the Assembly), and in partnership with the LA84 Foundation and the Play Equity Fund.
SCR 77 encourages all California children and their families to get out and play on June 24th while calling attention to current inequities in youth access to play. A substantial body of research has shown that sport and play improve mental and physical health, increase cognitive performance, build self-esteem, cultivate leadership skills, and lead to higher academic and career achievements.
According to the Los Angeles County Youth Sports Participation Survey commissioned by the LA84 Foundation, children from households with annual incomes greater than $150,000 had a 93% sport participation rate, while only 68% of children from households with annual incomes below $35,000 are likely to participate in sports.
“I’m very proud to have brought this resolution, which highlights the critical role of play and movement in healthy youth development,” said Senator Josh Newman, D-Fullerton. “Equal access and opportunity for organized play activities is essential for our children and communities across the state. I hope that this coming Saturday, June 24th, every Californian will take the opportunity to get out and play.”
The LA84 Foundation, funded by the enduring legacy of the groundbreaking 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games, and the Play Equity Fund have issued a joint call to action to help close this play equity gap. SCR 77 represents an important step toward creating an annual national celebration focused on highlighting the lifelong benefits of sport, play, and movement for all kids and to the benefit of the neighborhoods in which they live.