Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) and Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN) announced the introduction of a resolution recognizing October as National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month. The resolution is endorsed by the National Center for Learning Disabilities, a leading non-profit organization focused on building community, sharing resources, and shaping policy to help individuals with learning and attention issues.
“I began my career in public service to ensure that individuals with learning disabilities, like my daughter who has dyslexia, have the resources and positive learning environments they need to live up to their fullest potential,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “In recognizing October as National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, we are bringing much needed awareness to the challenges people with learning disabilities face and, more importantly, reaffirming our commitment to providing them with the support they need to succeed.”
“Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and for students with learning disabilities, that path can be more challenging. As a mother of a child with a learning disability, I understand the importance of providing the necessary support for these students to succeed. We’re committed to advocating for inclusive learning environments that empower every student to thrive,” said Congresswoman Houchin.
“Learning Disabilities Awareness Month is a time to shine a light on and celebrate the strength and tenacity of those with learning disabilities,” says Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez, CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities. “This resolution is an important step in advancing equity and ensuring every student has the tools, resources, and support to reach their full potential. We are grateful for Congresswomen Brownley’s leadership in raising awareness to uplift and empower the learning disabilities community. Together, we are calling on states and districts to continue to meet the needs of students with learning disabilities and ensure access to a free and appropriate public education.”
According to a report published by the National Center for Learning Disabilities, one in five children in the U.S. have a learning disability. Only one in 16 public school students have individualized learning accommodations for their learning disabilities, while millions of children with learning issues are not properly identified. These staggering statistics often lead to children not only facing challenges in school but also lifelong struggles that can lead to unemployment and trouble with the law. This resolution brings awareness to the learning disabilities that impact millions of children and adults and reaffirms support through advocacy and education for all individuals affected by learning disabilities across the United States.
The full text of the bill can be found here.
###
Issues: 118th Congress, Education