SR0239 101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0239 LRB101 11695 MST 58169 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Down syndrome is a chromosomal anomaly that occurs in one out of every 700 to 1,000 births; and

WHEREAS, Down syndrome affects all races and ethnicities in all parts of the world; and

WHEREAS, According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of babies born with Down syndrome has increased by 30 percent over the past 40 years; and

WHEREAS, Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21; this additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome; and

WHEREAS, Adequate access to health care, early intervention programs, and inclusive education, as well as appropriate research, are vital to the growth and development of individuals with Down syndrome; and

WHEREAS, The inherent dignity, worth, and valuable contributions of persons with Down syndrome as promoters of well-being and diversity of their communities, and the importance of their individual autonomy and independence, including the freedom to make their own choices should be recognized; and

WHEREAS, Individuals with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, have meaningful relationships, vote, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways; and

WHEREAS, This inclusiveness facilitates the participation of individuals with Down syndrome in society and helps them fulfill their personal potential; and

WHEREAS, The National Buddy Walk Program helps raise awareness and funds for programs that benefit people with Down syndrome and their families, and the Special Olympics raises awareness and allows individuals with Down syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities, to discover new strengths and abilities, skills, and success; and

WHEREAS, In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day to be observed every year beginning in 2012 and invited all to observe World Down Syndrome Day in order to raise public awareness of Down syndrome; and

WHEREAS, The 21st day of the third month was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome; and

WHEREAS, The observation of World Down Syndrome Day is important in raising public awareness of Down syndrome, creating a single voice of avocation of rights, inclusion, and well-being; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare March 21, 2019 as Illinois Down Syndrome Day; and be it further

RESOLVED, That all Illinoisans are encouraged to support and participate in related activities; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Down Syndrome International.