Assembly Resolution No. 202

BY: M. of A. Seawright

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
March 2023, as Developmental 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 conditions
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, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 2023, as
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in the State of New York, in
conjunction with the observance of National Developmental Disabilities
Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, Individuals with developmental disabilities live, work, and
volunteer in every neighborhood of this great Empire State; they are
family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers, teammates and
classmates; and

WHEREAS, The communities of New York State are strongest when every
resident is fully able to share his or her gifts and talents; and

WHEREAS, In 1987, President Ronald Reagan first proclaimed the month
of March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and called upon
Americans everywhere to provide the encouragement and opportunities
necessary so that people with developmental disabilities can reach their
highest potential; and

WHEREAS, Despite the many positive changes in societal attitude,
workplace and educational culture, health care, available resources, and
knowledge concerning people with developmental disabilities, much
remains to be done to address the prevalence of negative stereotypes,
lingering misinformation, and subsequent discrimination and barriers
some of these vulnerable citizens face; and

WHEREAS, During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, New
Yorkers are encouraged to recognize the abilities of all people, and to
take time to get to know some of the 300,000 New Yorkers with
developmental disabilities; and

WHEREAS, It is crucial that individuals with developmental
disabilities have access to the resources which allow them to live
secure, fulfilling lives, including education, housing, employment, and
recreational activities; and

WHEREAS, Opportunities for citizens with developmental disabilities
to live as independently and productively as possible must be fostered
throughout New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 2023, as

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in the State of New York; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.