WHEREAS, National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month has been observed nationally each March since 1987, following designation by Congress and a Presidential proclamation to increase public awareness of the needs, potential, contributions, and inclusion of Americans with developmental disabilities, and to highlight the importance of community support, opportunity, and dignity for all; and 

WHEREAS, individuals with developmental disabilities are valued members of our communities who contribute their talents, perspectives, and abilities to workplaces, schools, civic life, and neighborhoods throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia; and 

WHEREAS, inclusive communities that provide access to education, employment, healthcare, housing, transportation, and recreation empower individuals with developmental disabilities to live, work, and thrive with dignity and independence; and 

WHEREAS, families, caregivers, educators, advocates, and service providers across the Commonwealth work tirelessly to expand opportunities and ensure meaningful inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities; and 

WHEREAS, National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month provides an opportunity to promote understanding, combat stigma, and reaffirm our commitment to equal opportunity and full participation for all Virginians; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Governor Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize March 2026, as DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.