[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 29, Number 5 (Monday, February 8, 1993)]
[Pages 135-136]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 6527--National Women and Girls in Sports Day, 1993

 February 3, 1993

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    In 1972, Title IX was passed requiring colleges receiving government 
funds to provide equitable athletic programs for women, thus markedly 
expanding sports opportunities for women. As we enter the third decade 
of this law, it is fitting and proper that we recognize the importance 
of the skills gained through fitness and athletic experiences.
    Sports and fitness activities greatly enhance emotional and physical 
well-being. Additionally, the communication and cooperation skills 
learned through athletic experiences play a key role in an individual's 
contributions at home, at work, and to society. At the same time, the 
bonds built through athletics help to break down the barriers of racism 
and prejudice.
    Unfortunately, while the history of women in sports is rich and 
long, there has been limited national recognition of the significance of 
women's athletic achievements. The number of women in leadership 
positions as coaches, officials, and administrators has declined 
drastically over the years. Athletic opportunities for male students at 
the high school and collegiate level remain significantly greater than 
those for female students.
    With the promise of a bright future, female athletes serve as a 
source of pride and unity for the United States. They represent the best 
of performance and dedication and serve as valuable role models to 
younger citizens.
    The Congress, by House Joint Resolution 546, has designated February 
4, 1993, as ``National Women and Girls in Sports Day'' and has 
authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in 
observance of this day.
    Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, President of the United 
States of America,

[[Page 136]]

by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the 
United States, do hereby proclaim February 4, 1993, as National Women 
and Girls in Sports Day. I urge all Americans to observe this day with 
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of 
February, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-three, and 
of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
seventeenth.
                                            William J. Clinton

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 2:11 p.m., February 4, 
1993]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on February 4, and it was published in the Federal Register on 
February 8.