HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRO Archive - 03/15/2016 - Proclamation Down Syndrome Awareness MonthWHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
WHEREAS,
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-Syndrome Day
Down Syndrome Awareness Month
Down Syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition,
resulting when a person possesses three rather than the usual two copies of
the 21 st chromosome. Each year, one in every 691 babies in the United States
is born with Down Syndrome, representing approximately 6,000 births
nationwide and 90 to l 00 births in Georgia, and;
Down Syndrome affects individuals of all races and economic levels. Currently,
there are more than 400,000 individuals living with Down Syndrome in the United
States. Individuals with Down Syndrome should have the opportunity to
achieve the universally desired goals of self-fulfillment, pride in their
achievements, inclusion in their community and reaching their fullest potentials,
and;
due to medical advances, education, work opportunities, community-based
recreation, and social as well as independent living choices, individuals with
Down Syndrome possess a wide range of abilities and are active participants
in society. They hold gainful employment and participate in recreational and
faith-based social activities. Also, as medical care continues to advance,
individuals with Down Syndrome are living longer and healthier lives as
members of their communities; and,
while research and early intervention has resulted in outstanding improvements
in the length and quality of life of individuals with Down Syndrome, continued
efforts in genetic research are needed to improve, correct, or prevent some of
the challenges associated with the condition; and,
during the month of March, advocacy groups and non-profit organizations will
work to educate the public about Down Syndrome, encouraging acceptance
and inclusion of individuals with the condition. This is the first year that World
Down Syndrome Day is officially recognized by the United Nations. It is in the
interest of the state and City to recognize the achievements being made by
individuals with Down Syndrome and to support their acceptance and inclusion
in the community by promoting awareness and fostering the understanding of
Down Syndrome as well as providing community-based support to them, their
families, friends, health care providers, educators, and advocates.
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Mayor and City Council of the City of Milton, hereby proclaim the
month of March as Down Syndrome Awareness Month in the City of Milton and encourage all
· e .. m to join us in making sure that Down Syndrome is given proper recognition.
der our hand and seal of the City of Milton, Georgia on this 21 •1 day of March, 2016.