A Proclamation of the Commerce City Council
Designating March 21, 2023 as
Down Syndrome Awareness Day
In the City Of Commerce
WHEREAS, approximately one in every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, which occurs in people of all races and economic levels, living in the United States; and WHEREAS, the life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades from age 25 in 1983 to 60 today; and WHEREAS, Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused when abnormal cell division results in extra genetic material from chromosome 21; and WHEREAS, Down syndrome causes a distinct facial appearance, intellectual disability, developmental delays, and may be associated with thyroid or heart disease; and WHEREAS, when children and adults with Down syndrome and other disabilities are given opportunities to participate, all children benefit from this shared environment; and WHEREAS, on December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 21st as World Down Syndrome Day; and WHEREAS, Down Syndrome Awareness Day is an opportunity to enhance public education and awareness about Down syndrome; WHEREAS, as members of society, individuals with down syndrome benefit from loving homes, education, positive public attitudes, and a supportive community; and WHEREAS, Down Syndrome Awareness Day will raise the public’s knowledge and awareness to take necessary steps to support, educate, advocate, and celebrate Down syndrome.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COMMERCE CITY COUNCIL HEREBY PROCLAIMS MARCH 21, 2023 AS DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY IN THE CITY OF COMMERCE TO INCREASE AWARENESS AND PROMOTE INDEPENDENCE FOR INDIVIDUALS AFFECTED BY THIS CONDITION.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 14th day of March 2023.
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Oralia Y. Rebollo
Mayor
ATTEST:
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Lena Shumway
City Clerk