SR0796 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0796 LRB103 39699 ECR 70117 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Approximately one in six people globally experience a disability, including neurological, cognitive, neurodevelopmental, physical, visual, auditory, sensory, respiratory, and processing difficulties; and

WHEREAS, Not all disabilities are visible, and people living with non-visible disabilities often face barriers in their everyday lives and may need additional assistance; and

WHEREAS, People with hidden disabilities may experience difficulty asking for and/or articulating their needs, and they may face stigmatization and lack of understanding when they choose to ask for help; and

WHEREAS, The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognized symbol for non-visible disabilities, and people may use this symbol, a visible sunflower design on a lanyard, card, or silicone wristband, to voluntarily and discreetly share that they have a disability and to signify that they may need increased aid; and

WHEREAS, Airports throughout Illinois have begun to implement the Sunflower Project, having a disability Sunflower decal visible upon entrance, Sunflower wristbands available for passengers, and Sunflower pins available for employees to wear to signify the airport supports people with hidden disabilities; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois Senate can utilize its position to spread awareness of the Sunflower project throughout the State; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare the week of October 20 through October 26, 2024 as Invisible Disabilities Week in Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we urge State facilities to adopt the Sunflower Project, including making Sunflower decals visible upon entry, making Sunflower lanyards, wristbands, and/or cards available, and educating staff on the meaning and desired goal of the Sunflower Project.