WHEREAS, President Ronald Reagan declared February 4, 1987, as the first National Women in Sports Day, in recognition of the history of women’s athletics and the progress made by the Title IX amendment passed in 1972, codifying nondiscrimination in sports programs; and

WHEREAS, National Girls and Women in Sports Day exists to acknowledge past, and recognize current, sports achievements, the positive influence of sports participation, and the continuing struggle for equity, pay, and access for women in sports; and

WHEREAS, Participation in sports is acknowledged as a positive force in developing and promoting the physical, mental, moral, social, and emotional well-being of all individuals. In addition to establishing a healthy, active lifestyle, sports build confidence, leadership skills, and the ability to work with a team; and

WHEREAS, A need for increased opportunities exists for girls to participate in and pursue physical activity at the community and scholastic levels to improve their health and well-being and to develop lifelong fitness habits at an early age; and

WHEREAS, Girls’ and women’s athletics is one of the most effective avenues available through which women may develop self-discipline, initiative, and confidence, regardless of background; and

WHEREAS, Girls and women of all ages are encouraged to participate in, and contribute to, sports at all levels of competition and help prepare the next generation of female sports leaders; now, therefore, be it