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Designating the third full week of October, in 2026 and in each succeeding year, as Non-Apparent Disabilities Awareness Week in Virginia.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 11, 2026
Agreed to by the Senate, March 3, 2026
WHEREAS, many Virginians live with a medical condition that both impacts their day-to-day life and is not readily apparent to others; and
WHEREAS, these non-apparent disabilities include neurological, cognitive, developmental, and mental health disorders, chronic pain, and autoimmune, sensory-processing, and learning disabilities; and
WHEREAS, individuals suffering from a non-apparent disability may be accused of exaggerating or faking their condition and may not receive adequate assistance, resources, or support to navigate the challenges of their disorder; and
WHEREAS, individuals may be unwilling to disclose the nature of their non-apparent disability for fear of the discrimination or stigma that it may bring; and
WHEREAS, several organizations are dedicated to raising awareness of non-apparent disabilities and to educating the general public, inspiring change in our communities, and collaborating with people touched by illness, pain, and disability around the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS, education and greater awareness of non-apparent disabilities will lead to a broader concept of inclusion in our communities and to more meaningful accommodations for those in need; and
WHEREAS, recognizing Non-Apparent Disabilities Awareness Week in the Commonwealth will promote understanding of non-apparent disabilities, leading individuals with these unique circumstances to have greater pride in themselves, to benefit from wider acceptance and support, and to participate more fully in their communities; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly designate the third full week of October, in 2026 and in each succeeding year, as Non-Apparent Disabilities Awareness Week in Virginia; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates transmit a copy of this resolution to the Disability Law Center of Virginia so that members of the organization may be apprised of the sense of the General Assembly of Virginia in this matter; and, be it
RESOLVED FINALLY, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates post the designation of this week on the General Assembly's website.