Proclamation – Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month – March 2023

WHEREAS, There are more than 6,000,000 individuals with developmental disabilities that reside in the US mainland and its territories.  These individuals have the same hopes and dreams as all CNMI residents – to be self-determined, work and earn a living, practice their faith, and be included in their community; and,  

WHEREAS, People with developmental disabilities have unique abilities and experiences that contribute to our island’s rich diversity and heritage, just like all residents.  Throughout our history, people with developmental disabilities have utilized their unique abilities to make our islands a better place for all; and,

WHEREAS, The CNMI is a stronger place when people of all abilities are included in community life.  Students with developmental disabilities who are included in the classroom with their non-disabled peers are more likely to achieve their full academic potential; and,  

WHEREAS, When people with disabilities are included in the general workforce, they have an opportunity to earn a competitive wage, work as part of a team, and impact the local economy.  People with developmental disabilities who are included and active in their communities generally live longer, healthier lives and are more likely to give back to their communities.  When inclusion happens, communities in the CNMI are stronger; and, 

WHEREAS, Each year, March is designated to raise awareness about developmental disabilities and highlight the importance of including people of all abilities in all aspects of community life.  This month, we all can raise awareness about how classrooms, workplaces, houses of worship, and communities are stronger when they include people of all abilities.  We encourage all CNMI residents to raise awareness about developmental disabilities and support full inclusion and equality for these remarkable individuals.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ARNOLD I. PALACIOS, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, AND, I, DAVID M. APATANG, Lt. Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands by virtue of the authority vested in us by the Constitution and Laws of the Commonwealth, do hereby proclaim March 2023 as

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH

This is a time for us to focus on helping the public better understand the important contributions of our citizens with disabilities. We encourage all citizens to raise awareness and to give full support to efforts toward enabling people with developmental disabilities to live productive lives and achieve their optimum potential.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands on this 1st day of March 2023.

/s/

ARNOLD I. PALACIOS

Governor

/s/

DAVID M. APATANG

Lieutenant Governor

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