WHEREAS:

            Over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates have increased triple fold. Currently, almost one of every three children in this country is obese or overweight. The numbers are greater in the African American and Hispanic populations; and

WHEREAS:

            Obesity has been related not only to factors of race and genetics, but also it has been directly related to socio-economic status, where lower-income and working class people have higher incidences of overweight and obesity; and

WHEREAS:

            Children that are provided with nutritious meals during the school day have better grades and increased academic achievement; and

WHEREAS:

            Schools have a moral responsibility to introduce nutritious meals and instill healthy eating practices. Children at a young age are impressible, thus introducing healthy food choices will remain with them through their adult years; and

WHEREAS:

            Providing healthy and nutritious meals in the schools can significantly reduce ongoing chronic disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, hardening of the arteries and cancer.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

            AFSCME will support the efforts of the campaign initiated by First Lady Michelle Obama intended to solve the challenges of the child obesity crisis in America. The First Lady has indicated that the campaign would encourage healthier food in schools, better food labeling and more physical activity for children; and

            AFSCME will promote programs to educate and encourage its members to foster healthier foods and lifestyles for their families and communities.