WHEREAS, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are 61 million adults in the United States living with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, the United States Census Bureau reports that there are also more than 3 million children in the United States living with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law to prevent discrimination based on disabilities, require that employers provide reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, and create accessibility requirements in public spaces; and

WHEREAS, despite these protections, individuals with a disability remain at an increased risk of experiencing discrimination, isolation, and other inequities; and

WHEREAS, throughout the Commonwealth, individuals with disabilities are active members of their communities and make meaningful contributions to the arts, science, health care, technology, sports, education, law, and many other professions; and

WHEREAS, Disability Pride Month is celebrated in July by people across the United States and provides an opportunity for all Virginians to celebrate the achievements of people with disabilities and take an active role in preventing discrimination against people with disabilities; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly designate July, in 2024 and in each succeeding year, as Disability Pride Month in Virginia; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates transmit a copy of this resolution to representatives of the disability community in the Commonwealth so that they may be apprised of the sense of the General Assembly of Virginia in this matter; and, be it

RESOLVED FINALLY, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates post the designation of this month on the General Assembly's website.