SR381: SR381 Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month; recognize March 2025

25 LC 112 3281 Senate Resolution 381 By: Senators Esteves of the 35th, James of the 28th, Kemp of the 38th, Halpern of the 39th, Parent of the 44th and others A RESOLUTION Recognizing March 2025 as Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month; and for other purposes.1 WHEREAS, autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mista kenly attacks2 healthy cells and tissues, affecting more than 50 million Ameri cans and millions more3 individuals worldwide; and4 WHEREAS, there are over 100 identified autoimmune diseases, man y of which5 disproportionately impact women, who make up approximately 80 p ercent of individuals6 affected; and7 WHEREAS, systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) disproportionately affects Black women,8 who are at greater risk of experiencing more severe symptoms an d are three times more9 likely to develop the disease compared to women of other groups; and10 WHEREAS, Black women are also at an increased risk for other au toimmune diseases,11 including sarcoidosis and polymyositis, which can lead to severe health complications; and12 S. R. 381 - 1 - 25 LC 112 3281 WHEREAS, autoimmune diseases contribute to significant health d isparities for Black13 women, resulting in a critical need for increased awareness, research, and access to equitable14 healthcare; and15 WHEREAS, Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month provides an opportunity to educate the16 public and healthcare professionals about autoimmune diseases, their impact on Black17 women, and the importance of early detection and intervention; and18 WHEREAS, supporting organizations dedicated to autoimmune disease advocacy, education,19 and research is essential to improving outcomes for those affected.20 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body21 recognize March 2025 as Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month and acknowledge the22 disproportionate impact of autoimmune diseases on Black women.23 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed24 to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the25 press.26 S. R. 381 - 2 -