WHEREAS, Dyslexia is a reading disability that affects one's ability to quickly and accurately decode words, spell correctly and comprehend text; and
WHEREAS, Dyslexia affects one in five individuals, that is 60 million individuals in the United States are living with Dyslexia; and
WHEREAS, The signs of Dyslexia can be seen during early childhood when a child demonstrates persistent baby talk, has trouble rhyming and recognizing letters; and
WHEREAS, Dyslexia can be diagnosed as early as kindergarten when a child struggles with letter/sound recognition, has inability to read simple one syllable words, and complains about reading; and
WHEREAS, Individuals with Dyslexia have average to above average intelligence and those living with Dyslexia simply learn differently and in fact have a host of cognitive and emotional strengths; and
WHEREAS, When Dyslexia goes undiagnosed, children and adults often feel frustrated, have low self-esteem, are at risk for dropping out of school and becoming involved in the criminal justice system, and may not achieve their full potential in all aspects of their lives; and
WHEREAS, Early identification and intervention can produce remarkable outcomes and enhance one's ability to perform successfully in academic settings as well as in their personal life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby recognize October 2013 as Dyslexia Awareness Month in honor of the individuals living with Dyslexia.
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