National Missing Children’s Day.
The resolution aims to raise public awareness about child abduction, particularly focusing on its impact on marginalized communities. It notes the disproportionate victimization of Black and Native American children, who comprise a higher percentage of missing children compared to their representation in the general population. This acknowledgment is critical for framing future legislative and community responses to the complexities surrounding child welfare and safety.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 24 (ACR24) proposes to declare May 25, 2025, as National Missing Children's Day in California, commemorating the 42nd anniversary of the first observance of this day. This resolution arises from increasing concerns regarding the rising number of missing children in the state and nationwide. Reports indicate that in 2023, California saw over 66,000 missing children, a 7.24% increase from the previous year, highlighting a significant public safety issue that warrants legislative attention.
While ACR24 is mainly a resolution to foster recognition and awareness, it underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts among state agencies, law enforcement, local governments, and community organizations. The resolution encourages all stakeholders to participate in educational campaigns aimed at preventing child abduction, thereby fostering a community-centric approach to a growing crisis. Overall, ACR24 serves not only to declare a day of remembrance but also as a call for a collective societal commitment to protect children from abduction and to support affected families.