WHEREAS, Sickle Cell Disease is one of the world’s foremost genetic diseases, and has severe physical, psychological and social consequences for those affected and their families. In its homozygote form, it is one of the most lethal genetic diseases; and
WHEREAS, On December 22, 2008, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted a resolution, initially sponsored by the Congo, to recognize Sickle Cell Disease as a serious world health problem and declare June 19th of every year as “World Sickle Cell Awareness Day”; and
WHEREAS, Since 2009, World Sickle Cell Awareness Day has served to increase public knowledge about this worldwide public health concern and the struggles that those with Sickle Cell Disease face; and
WHEREAS, June 19, 2019 marks the 10th Anniversary of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day.
Members of the Philadelphia community are organizing a “Shine the Light on Sickle Cell Disease” event in celebration of this landmark anniversary; and
WHEREAS, The goal of the “Shine the Light on Sickle Cell Disease” is to increase awareness, build support networks, raise critical resources, and strengthen the community’s collective resolve to advocate for access to services and a cure for Sickle Cell Disease; and
WHEREAS, Sickle Cell Disease affects more than 100,000 people in the United States, and millions worldwide. There is a serious need to continue to raise public awareness about Sickle Cell Disease and to eliminate harmful prejudices associated with the disease; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes the 10th Anniversary of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, and declares June 19, 2019 as Sickle Cell Awareness Day in the City of Philadelphia.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of American - Philadelphia & Delaware Valley Chapter as evidence of the sincere respect and appreciation of this legislative body.
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