WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, February 28, 2023 — Today, American Humane—the country’s first humane organization—headed to Capitol Hill to ask Congress to recognize January 17th as National Betty White Day. For nearly a century, the late actress supported American Humane as both a volunteer and a member of our board of directors.

She was a vital part of our “No Animals Were Harmed” program, which protects animals involved in the film and television industry—combining two of Betty’s biggest passions. She also served as the chair of our nationwide “Be Kind to Animals Week,” the most successful humane education campaign and the oldest commemorative week in U.S. history.

Earlier this year, American Humane launched a campaign to collect at least 10,000 petition signatures from fellow animal lovers who join American Humane’s eagerness to cement Betty’s legacy for generations to come. Over the course of two-months, American Humane well surpassed that goal and delivered more than 21,000 petitions to Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) on Capitol Hill on Tuesday.

“National Betty White Day is a wonderful way to honor the legacy of a spirited philanthropist, animal lover and trailblazer in entertainment industry,” said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. “I’m proud to help support this initiative and look forward to it stimulating widespread support to benefit animals throughout the country.”

“Betty volunteered her service and financial support to American Humane and other animal advocacy organizations across the country for more than 70 years. Now it is our turn to ensure her contributions to animal welfare are never forgotten,” said Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “This remarkable woman’s lifelong commitment helped ensure animals around the world are treated with the love, care, and compassion they deserve. We want to thank every animal lover for their support and Congressman Gus Bilirakis for his dedication to our cause.”