SENATE RESOLUTION 9

(By Senators Jeffries, Baldwin, Hamilton, Lindsay, Roberts, Stollings, and Rucker)

[Introduced January 17, 2020]

Designating January 20, 2020, as Down Syndrome Awareness Day.

Whereas, There are 1 in 700 babies born with Down syndrome each year; and

Whereas, Individuals with Down syndrome, like all others, have the right to live, work, and fully participate in their communities in order to attain their goals and dreams; and

Whereas, Individuals with Down syndrome have the right to a free and appropriate public education alongside their peers without disabilities so they can learn and develop to their fullest potential; and

Whereas, Individuals with Down syndrome have the right to an equal opportunity to live full, productive lives as valued community members in the neighborhoods of their choice; and

Whereas, Individuals with Down syndrome have the right to receive the support they need to exercise self-determination, achieve independence, and become productive employees; and

Whereas, The Down Syndrome Network of West Virginia has become a statewide organization to enhance the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and to increase awareness and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome; and

Whereas, The purpose of Down Syndrome Awareness Day is to increase the awareness and understanding of our legislators, administrators, policymakers, and the public about the issues that are important to individuals with Down syndrome; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby designates January 20, 2020, as Down Syndrome Awareness Day; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the appropriate representatives of Down Syndrome Awareness Day.