Activists ‘Stand for Children’ by Freeway

Holding a banner and waving placards along a freeway overpass in Fullerton, community activists Thursday kicked off a national campaign to raise awareness of children’s issues.

The signs urged motorists to “stand for children” on June 1, the second annual “Stand for Children Day,” when teachers, child-care providers, hospitals, schools and parents will stage rallies, marches and fairs to raise the nation’s consciousness.

In Orange County, children’s advocacy groups, medical centers, social workers and others will sponsor a fair at Eddie West Field in Santa Ana for children and their parents.

The freeway demonstrators said the fair will offer free immunizations and child-raising advise. In addition, parents will get tips on health care and referrals to organizations that deal with child abuse, safety and education.

Javier Cortez, a freeway demonstrator and a college student studying to be a teacher, said he and others will continue holding banners at freeway overpasses across the county and invite parents to the June 1 fair.

Last year, about 200,000 people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., to remind politicians that cutting spending on welfare, medical care and other social programs for the poor will ultimately affect millions of politically disenfranchised youngsters.

This year, organizers, including the Children’s Defense Fund, say they will continue the campaign by urging people to take a stand and make sure that every child gets a healthy start in life.

“You’ve got to show some concern for children and their needs, especially their well-being and their education,” said Sonny Balberrama of United Neighborhoods of in Anaheim.

Those interested in organizing a rally or other “Stand for Children” event on June 1 may call (202) 234-0095 for more information.