Disability History Awareness Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

WHEREAS, according to the most recent July 2021 U.S. Census Report, more than 1,000,000 Virginians have a diagnosed disability; and

WHEREAS, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 was a bi-partisan bill passed by Congress and signed by President George H.W. Bush; and

WHEREAS, the ADA is founded on four principles: inclusion, full participation, economic sufficiency, and equality of opportunity for all people with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth is committed to lifelong learning and the principles of diversity, opportunity, and inclusion for all people; and

WHEREAS, educating children and the public about the numerous achievements of people with disabilities and their contributions to American society increases awareness of all our shared history, values, and societal beliefs; and

WHEREAS, beginning in 2009, in response to advocacy by high school students with disabilities, the Virginia General Assembly resolved that October be set aside as an annual, month-long observance of the history of the disability rights movement and commemoration of the achievements of those with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Virginians with disabilities have been successful in reducing barriers they face in employment, healthcare, education, and community living by successfully advocating for changes throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, throughout the history of our nation and Commonwealth, Virginian’s with disabilities have made profound contributions to strengthening the Spirit of Virginia; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth acknowledges these efforts and will continue to represent the youth who advocated for this monthly designation to create a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and equal opportunities for all;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize October 2023, as DISABILITY HISTORY AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations