ATLANTA, Ga. () — The Georgia Council on Literacy (GCL) hosted its second annual Georgia Reads Day Monday at the College Football Hall of Fame.

The event featured a Reading Rally with more than 400 students to emphasize the importance of improving Georgia’s literacy rates. The event was also live-streamed statewide on Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB), ensuring classrooms across Georgia were able to participate in the literacy celebration.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued a proclamation designating Sept. 22, as Georgia Reads Day. The goal of the movement is to raise awareness about the importance of literacy.

“Early literacy and education continue to be top priorities for the Georgia House,” said Speaker Jon Burns. “Our children are our future, and their future starts in our classrooms. That’s why we’re proud to support Georgia Reads Day and the work of the Georgia Council on Literacy to make sure every child in our state can read on level by third grade. We remain dedicated to supporting the success of our teachers, students, and literacy coaches every step of the way.”

Author, former University of Georgia and NFL football player Malcolm Mitchell was Monday’s Reading Rally host. He told News 3 the greatest gift to him is seeing communities support children as they develop a love of reading. “[They come] together to ensure that every child in attendance gets a book. They get to take that book home, at no expense to them or their family. They can build their at home library. They can start practicing activities to foster positive outcomes in life.”