TITLE: Recognizing March 21, 2023, as World Down Syndrome Day.

SUMMARY: Recognizing March 21, 2023, as World Down Syndrome Day.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, World Down Syndrome Day is being held at the State Capitol on March 21, 2023, with the theme of "With Us Not For Us"; and WHEREAS, Down syndrome, the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition, occurs in individuals who have a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21; one of every 700 babies born in the United States each year is born with Down syndrome; and WHEREAS, Medical advances have significantly increased the life expectancy of people with Down syndrome, which is now approaching that of peers without the condition; in addition to the advantages of modern medicine, support groups and other resources are now available in nearly every community in the United States; and WHEREAS, When provided with quality education programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and support from family and friends, people with Down syndrome can lead fulfilling and productive lives; much progress has been made through the vision and hard work of parents, researchers, medical professionals, and other advocates, who have helped secure the rights of people with Down syndrome to live at home, attend schools, access appropriate health care, get married, find work, and contribute to society; instead of a charity-based approach, this year's theme of "With Us Not For Us" promotes a human rights-based approach that emphasizes the right of those with disabilities to be treated fairly and have the same opportunities available to others; and WHEREAS, In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day; this year, the State of Texas is joining with countries around the globe in recognition of this special event, and all Texans are encouraged to take part by helping to build a culture of greater respect and inclusion for those living with Down syndrome; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby recognize March 21, 2023, as World Down Syndrome Day at the State Capitol. King Alvarado Hancock Nichols Bettencourt Hinojosa Parker Birdwell Huffman Paxton Blanco Hughes Perry Campbell Johnson Schwertner Creighton Kolkhorst Sparks Eckhardt LaMantia Springer Flores Men ndez West Gutierrez Middleton Whitmire Hall Miles Zaffirini Patrick, President of the Senate President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 21, 2023.