89R4484 TBO-D
By: Leo Wilson H.C.R. No. 12
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The designation of September as Deaf Awareness Month
serves as a fitting means to promote better understanding and to
encourage greater support of individuals who are deaf or hard of
hearing; and
WHEREAS, The International Day of the Deaf was first
celebrated in 1958, and it later expanded to become a weeklong
commemoration of the first World Congress of the World Federation
of the Deaf, which took place in Rome in September 1951; Deaf
Awareness Month was established in 1996 through the efforts of the
National Association of the Deaf; in the years since, deaf and hard
of hearing communities across the United States have marked the
occasion by celebrating the essential role that its members play in
society and by focusing attention on their experiences and
achievements; and
WHEREAS, Texas is home to millions of individuals from
diverse backgrounds who are deaf or hard of hearing, and the members
of this unique cultural group share a rich and colorful history as
well as deep social connections; they often communicate through
visual methods, such as American Sign Language, written
communication, and lipreading, and they may use technologies such
as hearing aids, cochlear implants, video relay services, and
closed captions; and
WHEREAS, Government agencies such as the Texas Health and
Human Services Commission offer a variety of programs to support
citizens of all ages who are deaf or hard of hearing, including
communication services for events, educational initiatives,
interpreter training and certification, telecommunications
assistance, and tuition waivers; moreover, advocates for the deaf
and hard of hearing community are working to expand access to vital
resources and assistance and are dedicated to reducing stigma
related to deafness and hearing loss; and
WHEREAS, Deaf Awareness Month provides a welcome opportunity
to educate the public about issues that impact Texans who are deaf
or hard of hearing and to celebrate the many contributions they have
made to the vibrancy and prosperity of the Lone Star State; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 89th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate September as Deaf Awareness Month; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That, in accordance with the provisions of
Section 391.004(d), Government Code, this designation remain in
effect until the 10th anniversary of the date this resolution is
finally passed by the legislature.