WHEREAS, about 20 percent of Americans live with a condition which could be considered an invisible or hidden disability; and
WHEREAS, invisible disabilities can include cognitive impairment and brain injury, autism spectrum disorder, chronic illnesses like multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue, chronic pain and fibromyalgia, deafness, hard of hearing or blindness and/or low vision, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and many more; and
WHEREAS, the term invisible disabilities, as defined by the Invisible Disabilities Association, distinguishes disabilities not readily apparent based upon just looking at a person, leading this person to fight a battle seldom acknowledged by the outside world; and
WHEREAS, the lack of obvious signs of disability may result in misunderstandings, fear, and distrust, as well as a lack of funding, accommodations, medical resources, and overall support; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages organizations, health care practitioners, and all people to promote awareness and understanding for those affected by disabilities, regardless of visibility;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 15 – 21, 2023, as “INVISIBLE DISABILITIES WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.