WHEREAS, developmental disabilities occur as a common challenge among all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups; and

WHEREAS, recent estimates in the United States show that about one in six, or about 17 percent, of children aged three through seventeen years have one or more developmental disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Virginians with developmental disabilities contribute significantly to our schools, families, faith communities, and workforce; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth is committed to the process of transitioning to a community-based system of support for individuals with developmental disabilities and is redesigning critical programs and services to promote inclusion and community integration; and

WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is a time to recognize the efforts of parents and families to provide meaningful and full inclusion of their family members with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life and the commitment of the Commonwealth to identify and remove barriers and support inclusion for all Virginians; and

WHEREAS, recognizing the abilities and contributions of people with developmental disabilities enriches our Commonwealth and signifies our pursuit of equal opportunity, access, and rights for individuals with disabilities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize March 2022, as DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.