2023-K2248
Assembly Resolution No. 2248
BY: M. of A. Rules (Seawright)
MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
June 16, 2024, as Neurodiversity Pride Day in the
State of New York
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to celebrate the diversity of the
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 proclaim June 16, 2024, as
Neurodiversity Pride Day in the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, 2024 marks the 7th edition of Neurodiversity Pride Day,
celebrating the uniqueness of neurodivergent individuals and their
contributions to society at large; the Day supports acceptance,
inclusion, and appreciation for those who function differently than
others; and
WHEREAS, Considered to be an identity, "neurodivergent," is not just
a medical diagnosis and refers to the fact that neurodiverse individuals
have a different, but not lesser, way of perceiving the world; and
WHEREAS, A symbol of unity, the New York Neurodiversity Flag,
designed by Joshua Mirsky, with its prominent infinity symbol and
striking red and gold background was chosen after a contest and public
vote run by the New York State Autism Spectrum Disorders Advisory Board
in 2022; and
WHEREAS, The infinity symbol represents autism acceptance; the
diamond represents strength and value; the red background represents
power; and the gold represents 1st place, signaling that neurodivergent
individuals are not second class citizens; and
WHEREAS, The New York Neurodiversity Flag is a token of the movement
to call for change and represents a sense of identity, purpose, and
comradery within the community; and
WHEREAS, On Neurodiversity Pride Day, citizens are encouraged to
shift their focus to how to make society more accepting and to have
pride in possessing the courage to be themselves; and
WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater public awareness of
the unique strengths and potential of neurodivergent people, and more
must be done to increase activity at the local, State and national
levels to support neurodivergent people as well as their families; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul proclaim June 16, 2024, as
Neurodiversity Pride Day 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.