All throughout our state’s past you can find examples of Texans with disabilities who have left a lasting mark of greatness on the Lone Star State. That is because in Texas we know that it is not our challenges that define us, but rather how we rise above them.
Among those with disabilities, Texans who are deaf and hard of hearing have long been recognized for their contributions to our state. In fact, the 6th Texas Legislature helped to ensure the support of this community with the establishment of the Texas School for the Deaf in 1856.
Each September, organizations across Texas set out to raise awareness of this population of citizens and promote available resources for the educational and effective communication needs of Texans who are deaf or hard of hearing.
I encourage all Texans to support and celebrate the many unique and individual achievements of all citizens of our communities, and especially at this time, to honor Texans who are deaf and hard of hearing. I thank the many professionals and educators dedicated to assisting their fellow Texans and for their contributions focused on the best for all deaf and hard of hearing in Texas. Working together, we are ensuring a brighter future for our state.
Therefore, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim September 23–29, 2018, to be Deaf Awareness Week in Texas, and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.
Greg Abbott
Governor of Texas