Assembly Resolution No. 2248 BY: M. of A. Rules (Seawright) MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 16, 2024, as Neurodiversity Pride Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official days that are set aside to celebrate the diversity of the citizens of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul proclaim June 16, 2024, as Neurodiversity Pride Day in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, 2024 marks the 7th edition of Neurodiversity Pride Day, celebrating the uniqueness of neurodivergent individuals and their contributions to society at large; the Day supports acceptance, inclusion, and appreciation for those who function differently than others; and WHEREAS, Considered to be an identity, "neurodivergent," is not just a medical diagnosis and refers to the fact that neurodiverse individuals have a different, but not lesser, way of perceiving the world; and WHEREAS, A symbol of unity, the New York Neurodiversity Flag, designed by Joshua Mirsky, with its prominent infinity symbol and striking red and gold background was chosen after a contest and public vote run by the New York State Autism Spectrum Disorders Advisory Board in 2022; and WHEREAS, The infinity symbol represents autism acceptance; the diamond represents strength and value; the red background represents power; and the gold represents 1st place, signaling that neurodivergent individuals are not second class citizens; and WHEREAS, The New York Neurodiversity Flag is a token of the movement to call for change and represents a sense of identity, purpose, and comradery within the community; and WHEREAS, On Neurodiversity Pride Day, citizens are encouraged to shift their focus to how to make society more accepting and to have pride in possessing the courage to be themselves; and WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater public awareness of the unique strengths and potential of neurodivergent people, and more must be done to increase activity at the local, State and national levels to support neurodivergent people as well as their families; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul proclaim June 16, 2024, as Neurodiversity Pride Day in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York.