[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 86 (Thursday, June 30, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: June 30, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                     NATIONAL CHARACTER COUNTS WEEK

                                 ______


                         HON. WILLIAM J. HUGHES

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 30, 1994

  Mr. HUGHES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Joint 
Resolution 366, designating the week of October 16-22, 1994, as 
``National Character Counts Week.''
  House Joint Resolution 366 is a noble effort to bring national 
attention to the issue of character education and the importance of 
some crucial values. Unfortunately, with the deterioration of family, 
our young people are not receiving enough exposure to the importance of 
good character.
  It is a national tragedy that so many children are raised without the 
benefit of positive family influences. These young people often do not 
understand even the fundamental precepts of right and wrong. They too 
often are not sensitive to such qualities as respecting others' 
opinions and taking responsibility for their own actions.
  Somewhere out there is a youngster who will soon come to a 
crossroads. There are thousands like him who will be faced with the 
critical decision of which road to travel. And despite the moves toward 
tougher justice, the crime rate keeps going up. There is no doubt that 
our children are at risk, which means that our future is at risk.
  ``Character Counts'' is a way to put basic good citizenship back into 
the lives of our children. It incorporates civics work with kids to 
provide a path for personal growth and safety, as well as emotional 
stability.
  House Joint Resolution 366 aims to encourage communities, schools, 
and youth organizations to promote six core elements of character 
including trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, justice and 
fairness, caring, and civic virtue and citizenship. These six traits 
are the elements that we can all agree are absolutely essential to good 
citizenship and a productive and satisfying life.
  The coalition will put the issue of character development in the 
forefront of the American agenda through a wide variety of grassroots 
activities built upon the simple but profound conviction that Character 
Counts. The coalition is built upon the common ground of consensus 
ethical values that form the foundation of a democratic society.
  Character education programs are currently going on in thousands of 
our schools across the Nation. The intent is to teach students about 
these shared principles which contribute to ethical behavior and good 
citizenship. I believe in these positive efforts and feel that they 
need to be encouraged.
  Over 48 national youth influencing organizations and 30 million young 
people and adult supporters already have a belief and commitment in 
``Character Counts.'' I urge my colleagues to join in this bipartisan 
effort to invest in the future of our young people. I hope that you 
will cosponsor House Joint Resolution 366, for it is a well-structured 
and worthwhile partnership for the future.

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