K 214: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 17-23, 2025, as Neurodiversity Celebration Week in the State of New York

 Assembly Resolution No. 214 BY: M. of A. Lavine MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 17-23, 2025, as Neurodiversity Celebration Week in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official weeks that are set aside to increase awareness of serious conditions that affect the lives of 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 to proclaim March 17-23, 2025, as Neurodiversity Celebration Week in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, Neurodiversity includes experiences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, auditory processing disorder, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder; and WHEREAS, One in seven Americans are neurodivergent; in New York State, it is estimated that more than 29,000 children are on the autism spectrum and 6% of children have been diagnosed with ADHD; and WHEREAS, Students that are neurodivergent may face significant challenges in school and often experience social isolation and bullying; and WHEREAS, It is estimated that 85% of individuals on the autism spectrum are unemployed; despite stereotypes and struggles existing in many settings, neurodivergent people offer unique talents to their workplaces, schools, and communities; and WHEREAS, Established in 2018 by Siena Castellon, a student with autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and ADHD, Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about autism and learning disabilities; it aims to create inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower all individuals; 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 to proclaim March 17-23, 2025, as Neurodiversity Celebration Week 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.