2003
BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
A PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, People of all ages have developed the condition known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, often following either a single massive chemical exposure or repeated low level exposures to chemicals in the environment; and
WHEREAS, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity is a chronic condition for which there is neither a proven treatment nor a cure and which usually presents with several of the following signs and symptoms: chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pain, asthma, cognitive difficulties involving memory and concentration, headaches, and other respiratory and neurological problems; and
WHEREAS, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity can have a profound impact in the areas of employment, housing, access, personal relationships, and economic well being for those who have this condition; and
WHEREAS, The health of the general population is at risk from chemical exposures which can lead to illnesses that can be preventable through the reduction or avoidance of chemicals in the air, water, and food in both indoor and outdoor environments; and
WHEREAS, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity is recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Social Security Administration, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other state and federal governmental agencies and commissions which have supported the health and welfare of people with this condition; and
WHEREAS, Reasonable accommodations, educational efforts, and recognition of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity can provide opportunities for people with this condition to enjoy access to work, schooling, public facilities, and other settings where they can contribute their skills, knowledge, ideas, and creativity; and
WHEREAS, Individuals with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity need the understanding and support of family, friends, employers and co-workers, medical professionals, other members of society, and governmental agencies at all levels to help them cope with the significant and pervasive lifestyle changes imposed by this illness;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, MICHAEL F. EASLEY, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 2003, as "MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITIES AWARENESS MONTH" and May 12, 2003 as "INTERNATIONAL AWARENESS DAY" in North Carolina, and commend this observance to all our citizens.
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this twenty-sixth day of March in the year of our Lord two thousand and three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh..