LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim October 2013 as Disabilities Awareness Month in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official
months that are set aside to increase awareness of issues that affect
the lives of citizens of New York State; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to memo-
rialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim October 2013, as Disabili-
ties Awareness Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with
National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a
national campaign that raises awareness about disability employment
issues and celebrates the many and varied contributions of America's
workers with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, More than 20 years after the signing of the Americans with
Disabilities Act, individuals with disabilities, including injured
veterans, are making immeasurable contributions to workplaces across our
State and Nation; and
WHEREAS, Unfortunately, the unemployment rate for people with disabil-
ities remains too high -- nearly double the rate of people without disa-
bilities; and
WHEREAS, New Yorkers with disabilities, like all New Yorkers, are
entitled to not only full participation in our society, but also full
opportunity in our society; their talents and contributions are vital to
the strength of our State's workforce and our future prosperity; and
WHEREAS, Together, we can ensure persons living with disabilities have
equal access to employment, and to inclusive, supportive workplaces; and
WHEREAS, It is in the interest of New York State to recognize the
achievements which have been made thus far, and to continue these
efforts by promoting the awareness and fostering the understanding of
persons with disabilities; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim October 2013 as Disa-
bilities Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.