WHEREAS, The CNMI Disability Network Partners has embraced the theme “Worlds Imagined” in recognition of Developmental Disabilities and Employment Awareness Month.
WHEREAS, A talented pool of individuals with developmental or other disabilities residing in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands is waiting to be tapped. The CNMI is stronger when people of all abilities are included in community life and in the workplace. When people with developmental and other disabilities are included in the workforce, they have the opportunity to earn a competitive wage and to work as part of a team. People with developmental and other disabilities who are included and active in the communities are more likely to give back to their communities.
WHEREAS, Even to this day in the year two thousand twenty-two, we are presented with a number of barriers or challenges that prevent people with developmental and other disabilities from reaching their full and maximum potential in our community including the workplace. We join our U.S. program counterparts in acknowledging the adverse impact that attitudinal barriers play not only in the lives of people with developmental and other disabilities, but in our communities as well. Despite this reality, the Disability Network Partners are committed to ensuring that we continue on our collective journey towards true unity and diversity.
WHEREAS, During Developmental Disabilities and Employment Awareness Month, we celebrate the many talents and contributions of CNMI workers with disabilities as well as recognize the positive strides that employers have made in ensuring an all-inclusive workplace and culture. This month, please be encouraged to learn more about diversity in the workplace and decide what part you will play in this important effort.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RALPH DLG. TORRES, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and Laws of the Commonwealth, do hereby proclaim March 2022 as
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT
AWARENESS MONTH
I call upon the Disability Network Partners, employers, and other community organizations in the CNMI to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities, and to advance its important message that with inclusion comes success.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand on this 15th day of March 2022.
/s/
RALPH DLG. TORRES
Governor
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