Recognizing October 2021 as Down Syndrome Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, Down syndrome is an intellectual disability affecting over 400,000 Americans; and

WHEREAS, Roughly 6,000 babies are born in the United States each year with Down syndrome, or approximately 1 out of every 691 live births; and

WHEREAS, Down syndrome is caused by a cell division error which produces an extra chromosome; it is the most frequently occurring chromosomal abnormality; and

WHEREAS, Down syndrome presents both cognitive and physical symptoms; and

WHEREAS, Despite these challenges and differences, those with Down syndrome are capable of living rich, fulfilling lives; and

WHEREAS, Down syndrome was long stigmatized and those living with the disability had a life expectancy of just 25 years of age in the 1980s; and

WHEREAS, Today, life expectancy for those with Down syndrome has surpassed 60 years of age, and families and schools are far better equipped to provide an adequate support system; and

WHEREAS, President Reagan issued the first proclamation declaring October as National Down Syndrome Awareness Month in 1984; and

WHEREAS, Individuals with Down syndrome are not defined by their disability, but by their strengths, abilities, and dreams; and

WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia is proud to recognize the many contributions of those living with Down syndrome, and promote awareness in pursuit of greater understanding, empathy, inclusion, and support; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it herby recognizes October 2021 as Down’s Syndrome Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy by presented to the Trisomy 21 team at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, further evidencing the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body.

End