WHEREAS, children of incarcerated parents grow up, attend school, contribute to their hometowns, and participate in groups in every community in North Carolina and across the country; and
WHEREAS, an estimated one out of fourteen children in North Carolina have at least one parent in prison or jail; and
WHEREAS, children of incarcerated parents may face mental, emotional, and social obstacles as a result of their parents' separation and the stigma associated with incarceration; and
WHEREAS, these children frequently endure educational interruptions, such as transferring schools repeatedly or underperforming academically, due to the stress and uncertainty caused by their parent’s incarceration; and
WHEREAS, See Us Support Us is a national organization that raises awareness about and increases support for children of incarcerated parents; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina is dedicated to fostering a society in which the children of incarcerated and returning parents are supported rather than stigmatized;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 23 – 27, 2023, as “SEE US SUPPORT US WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.