Whereas, The General Assembly of the United Nations on December 22, 2008, adopted a resolution, drafted by the Democratic Republic of Congo, to recognize sickle cell disease as a serious world health problem on June 19 of each year, starting in 2009, at the national and international levels. The UN has declared June 19 as World Sickle Cell Awareness Day; and
Whereas, It is recognized that sickle cell disease is one of the world’s foremost genetic diseases. It has severe physical, psychological, and social consequences for those affected and their families. In its homozygote form, it is one of the most lethal genetic diseases; and
Whereas, There is a serious need to raise public awareness about sickle cell disease and to eliminate harmful prejudices associated with the disease; and
Whereas, People across Michigan are organizing events to celebrate World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, and in so doing to helping increase awareness, build support networks, raise critical resources, and strengthen our community’s collective resolve to advocate for access to sickle cell services and a universal cure for sickle cell disease; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare June 19, 2024, as Sickle Cell Awareness Day in Michigan.
Co-sponsored by Reps.
Adopted in the House by voice vote
