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TO EXPRESS THE COMMITMENT OF THE PEOPLE OF SOUTH CAROLINA TO POSITIVE CHARACTER TRAITS IN ALL ENDEAVORS AS A "STATE OF CHARACTER", ENCOURAGING CHARACTER IN OUR SCHOOLS, BUSINESSES, FAITHS, GOVERNMENT, LAW ENFORCEMENT, MEDIA, COMMUNITY GROUPS, AND FAMILIES, AND TO RECOGNIZE MARCH 21, 2004, AS "STATE OF CHARACTER DAY".
Whereas, values essential to the continued vitality of South Carolina include personal responsibility, honesty, duty, commitment to others, a strong work ethic, respect for property, respect for authority, and sound educational habits; and
Whereas, the General Assembly desires to build upon our honorable heritage by making South Carolina a State where families are strong, homes and streets are safe, education is effective, business is productive, neighbors care about each other, and citizens are free to make wise choices for their lives and families; and
Whereas, individuals are responsible for their actions, and daily decisions should be based upon objective moral standards that are the basis of universally recognized character qualities including, but not limited to, gratefulness, honesty, truthfulness, diligence, generosity, responsibility, compassion, and loyalty; and
Whereas, lack of commitment and irresponsibility have resulted in negative personal, social, and financial consequences to individuals and to this State as a whole, and there is a need to foster a community culture where good character is praised and encouraged; and
Whereas, many current societal problems are alleviated when the citizens of this State live by positive and constructive character qualities which distinguish between right and wrong; and
Whereas, our schools should be a safe atmosphere where character is exemplified, taught, and rewarded, and where learning is encouraged; and
Whereas, encouraging employees, both public and private, by recognizing positive character qualities results in an increase in workplace morale, employee safety, and corporate profits; and
Whereas, positive character messages from the media are a vital factor in raising the standards for our everyday behavior; and
Whereas, the emphasis of positive character qualities in every sector of society can occur only as individuals commit themselves to exemplifying character in their personal lives and inspiring others to do the same. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:
That the members of the General Assembly, on behalf of the people of South Carolina, pledge their continued commitment to positive character traits in all endeavors as a "State of Character", encouraging character in our schools, businesses, faiths, government, law enforcement, media, community groups, and families, and recognize March 21, 2004, as "State of Character Day".
Be it further resolved that the leaders of each of these groups are encouraged to support and contribute to this endeavor.
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