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Senate Resolution 381
By: Senators Esteves of the 35th, James of the 28th, Kemp of the 38th, Halpern of the 39th,
Parent of the 44th and others
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing March 2025 as Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month; and for other purposes.
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WHEREAS, autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks2
healthy cells and tissues, affecting more than 50 million Americans and millions more3
individuals worldwide; and4
WHEREAS, there are over 100 identified autoimmune diseases, many of which5
disproportionately impact women, who make up approximately 80 percent of individuals6
affected; and7
WHEREAS, systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) disproportionately affects Black women,8
who are at greater risk of experiencing more severe symptoms and are three times more9
likely to develop the disease compared to women of other groups; and10
WHEREAS, Black women are also at an increased risk for other autoimmune diseases,11
including sarcoidosis and polymyositis, which can lead to severe health complications; and12
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WHEREAS, autoimmune diseases contribute to significant health disparities for Black
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women, resulting in a critical need for increased awareness, research, and access to equitable14
healthcare; and15
WHEREAS, Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month provides an opportunity to educate the16
public and healthcare professionals about autoimmune diseases, their impact on Black17
women, and the importance of early detection and intervention; and18
WHEREAS, supporting organizations dedicated to autoimmune disease advocacy, education,19
and research is essential to improving outcomes for those affected.20
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body21
recognize March 2025 as Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month and acknowledge the22
disproportionate impact of autoimmune diseases on Black women.23
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed24
to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the25
press.26
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