Encouraging U.S. Mayors to Adopt a Children's Bill of Rights in Sports
Adopted at the 93rd Annual Meeting in 2025
WHEREAS, participation in youth sports is associated with an increased likelihood of college attendance and improved academic outcomes, particularly among disadvantaged youth; with lower rates of obesity, depression, and anxiety; and with improved levels of life satisfaction and well-being; and
WHEREAS, the Healthy People 2030 national goals for public health have set a target of raising youth sports participation to 63.3% by the end of this decade; and
WHEREAS, children's voices are often absent from decision-making in youth sports programs, underscoring the need to prioritize their perspectives and rights; and
WHEREAS, the National Youth Sports Strategy encourages governmental organizations at all levels, including municipal, to recognize that all youth should have the opportunity to play sports; and
WHEREAS, the Children's Bill of Rights in Sports, developed by the Project Play initiative of the Aspen Institute, outlines eight basic rights that every child should have in the realm of sports, including the right to play in a safe environment, the right to qualified coaches, and the right to be treated with dignity; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors endorses the Children's Bill of Rights in Sports; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors encourages U.S. mayors to adopt the Children's Bill of Rights in Sports as a guiding framework in their own cities, and to commit to creating the opportunity for all young people in their cities to develop as people through sports and other wellness opportunities; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that mayors are encouraged to work with local school districts, parks and recreation agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community sports leagues to develop policies and practices aligned with the Children's Bill of Rights in Sports; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors encourages U.S. mayors to consult Project Play resources to identify tools, models and opportunities that can help cities, parents and caregivers ensure that every child in their communities has the opportunity to play, grow and thrive through sports.