AJR55: Joint Resolution Text

LRB-4072/2

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1995 - 1996 LEGISLATURE

1995 Assembly JOINT RESOLUTION 55

September 14, 1995 - Introduced by Representatives Green, Gunderson, Coleman, Duff, Porter, Ryba, Schneiders, Ladwig, Goetsch, Freese, Hahn, Olsen, Owens, F. Lasee, Silbaugh, Harsdorf, Seratti, Ott, Albers, Vrakas and Grothman, cosponsored by Senators Panzer, Fitzgerald, Weeden, Clausing, Zien and Cowles. Referred to Committee on Rules.

AJR55,1,1 Relating to: proclaiming Character Counts Week.

AJR55,1,4 Whereas, the next generation will be the stewards of our communities, nation and world in critical times, and the present and future well-being of our society requires an involved, caring citizenry with good character; and

AJR55,1,7 Whereas, concerns about the character training of children have taken on a new sense of urgency as violence by and against young persons threatens the physical and psychological well-being of the nation; and

AJR55,1,10 Whereas, more than ever, children need strong and constructive guidance from their families and their communities; including schools, youth organizations, religious institutions and civic groups; and

AJR55,1,14 Whereas, the character of a nation is only as strong as the character of its individual citizens, and the public good is advanced when young people are taught that good character counts in personal relationships, in school and in the workplace; and

AJR55,2,2 Whereas, scholars and educators agree that people do not automatically develop good character and, therefore, conscientious efforts must be made by youth-influencing institutions and individuals to help young people develop the essential traits and characteristics that constitute good character; and

AJR55,2,6 Whereas, although character development is first and foremost an obligation of families, efforts by faith communities, schools and youth, civic and human service organizations also play a very important role in supporting family efforts by fostering and promoting good character; and

AJR55,2,9 Whereas, in July of 1992 the Aspen Declaration was written by an eminent group of educators, youth leaders and ethics scholars for the purpose of articulating a coherent framework for character education in our society; and

AJR55,2,14 Whereas, the Aspen Declaration states that "effective character education is based on core ethical values which form the foundation of democratic society": trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship, and these "Six Pillars of Character" transcend cultural, religious and socioeconomic differences; and

AJR55,2,17 Whereas, the Aspen Declaration states that "the character and conduct of our youth reflect the character and conduct of our society; therefore, every adult has the responsibility to promote the development of good character"; now, therefore, be it

AJR55,2,25 Resolved by the assembly, the Senate concurring, That the legislature of the state of Wisconsin endorses the "Six Pillars of Character"; urges all adults to seek opportunities to incorporate these core ethical values into their work with young people, whether in park and recreation activities, child care programs, community events or intern and employe training; and encourages all citizens, corporate and individual, to model these traits of good character in an ongoing commitment to promote character development and ethical behavior among the youth of our state; and, be it further

AJR55,3,4 Resolved, That the legislature of the state of Wisconsin declares the week commencing on October 15, 1995, as "Character Counts Week" and calls on the people of this state as well as all interested groups to embrace these "Six Pillars of Character" and to observe that week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

AJR55,3,5 (End)