News

Proclamation - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month

Published: September 1, 2026

See the Facebook Video and post here.

WHEREAS: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a diagnostic term used to describe the impacts on the brain and body of individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol. FASD is a lifelong disability. Individuals with FASD experience some degree of challenges in their daily living, and need support with motor skills, physical health, learning, memory, attention, communication, emotional regulation, and social skills to reach their full potential. Each individual with FASD is unique and has areas of both strengths and challenges; and

WHEREAS: Raising public awareness about the risks of prenatal alcohol exposure is essential in preventing alcohol use during pregnancy and promoting the health and well-being of pregnant people, families, and future generations; and

WHEREAS: Individuals with FASD can thrive, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and lead fulfilling lives when provided with the appropriate accommodations and supports; and

WHEREAS: the Town of Oxford recognizes the lifelong effects of FASD and is committed to supporting FASD awareness, healthy pregnancies, improving access to early diagnosis and assessment of FASD, and intervention and support for children, youth, and, adults with FASD and their families; and

WHEREAS: International FASD Awareness Day is observed globally on September 9, 2026, and FASD Awareness Month is observed throughout September 2026 as a reminder of the importance of alcohol-free pregnancies throughout the nine months of gestation, and to encourage compassion, inclusion, and support for those impacted by FASD; and

WHEREAS: The 2026 FASD Awareness Month theme, “Everyone Plays a Part: It Takes a Community”, highlights that supporting individual with FASD and promoting healthy, alcohol-free pregnancies is not just up to one person or the medical system. Community connection unites families, educators, employers, neighbours, and healthcare providers to build inclusive environments. Small, everyday actions collectively lead to a more informed, compassionate, and supportive community; and

THEREFORE, we do by these presents proclaim and declare that September 2026 shall be known as “Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month” and September 9, 2026, shall be known as “Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day” in the Town of Oxford.

Signed at Town of Oxford, Oxford NS, on this 1st day of September 2026.

Greg Henley, Mayor