5925747 ACR 21-175, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Recognition Resolution of 2016  

  • A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION

     

    21-175

     

    IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 

     

    March 1, 2016

     

     

    To recognize the month of March as “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month” in the District of Columbia and to promote the strengths and achievements of District of Columbia residents with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

     

    WHEREAS, in 1987, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the month of March as “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month”, calling upon all Americans to provide the “encouragement and opportunities” necessary for people with developmental disabilities to “lead productive lives and to achieve their full potential”;

     

    WHEREAS, the theme for this year’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is “Side-by-Side DC”, calling upon all District of Columbia residents, with and without disabilities, to work, live, learn, and play side-by-side; 

     

    WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month reminds us that there are an estimated 9,500 District of Columbia residents who have developmental disabilities;

     

    WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month celebrates the families of people with developmental disabilities, who deserve our recognition for their care, commitment, and ongoing support that are essential  in assisting individuals with developmental disabilities lead independent and productive lives;

     

    WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month acknowledges the many gifts and talents of people with developmental disabilities that enrich our community and enhance our diversity;

     

    WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month reminds us that people with developmental disabilities share a common desire to achieve personal success through education, meaningful work, and community involvement;

     

    WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month highlights the partnership between the District of Columbia government, advocacy community, and provider organizations to raise public awareness about people with developmental disabilities; and

     

    WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month encourages us to recognize the importance of achieving a fully inclusive community for all residents of the District of Columbia.

     

    RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this resolution may be cited as the “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Recognition Resolution of 2016”.

     

    Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes the contributions of people with developmental disabilities, and declares the month of March as “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month” in the District of Columbia as a confirmation of the District of Columbia’s continued support for residents with developmental disabilities and those who support them to achieve their goals.  

     

    Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon the first date of publication in the District of Columbia Register.