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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES |
H.C.R. NO. |
266 |
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TWENTY-SIXTH LEGISLATURE, 2011 |
H.D. 1 |
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STATE OF HAWAII |
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HOUSE CONCURRENT
RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING OCTOBER OF EACH YEAR AS "DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH" IN HAWAII.
WHEREAS, Down syndrome is the one of the most commonly occurring genetic conditions, with one in every 733 live births resulting in a baby born with Down syndrome, and it is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition; and
WHEREAS, advancements in Down syndrome research have given doctors, therapists, and educators new tools to care for individuals with Down syndrome so that they may live healthy and fulfilling lives; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature recognizes the many achievements, abilities, and unique communication needs of individuals with Down syndrome; and
WHEREAS, people with Down syndrome are living longer than ever before and the life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades -- from 25 years in 1983 to 60 years today; and
WHEREAS, children with Down syndrome are often fully integrated in social and educational settings and increasingly go on to graduate from high school and attend postsecondary education programs; and
WHEREAS, while placement in the workforce remains a challenge, career opportunities have improved, and adults with Down syndrome have attained a variety of positions, bringing enthusiasm, reliability, and dedication to their jobs; and
WHEREAS, advancements in education, research, and advocacy have had a tremendous impact on the opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome to live functional, successful lives; however, further education and awareness for Down syndrome is needed; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Twenty-sixth Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2011, the Senate concurring, that the month of October of each year be recognized as "Down Syndrome Awareness Month" in Hawaii; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Concurrent Resolution be transmitted to the Hawaii Down Syndrome Congress and Down Syndrome Ohana of Hawaii.
Down Syndrome Awareness Month; Lifelong Learning Guidelines