The publication is reproduced in full below:
RECOGNIZING THE I'M JUST ME MOVEMENT'S MONTH OF OCTOBER AS I'M JUST ME
BECAUSE MONTH
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HON. JENNIFER WEXTON
of virginia
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Ms. WEXTON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the I'm Just Me Movement's month of October as, I'm Just Me Because Month.
Councilwoman Tina Stevens of Stephens City, Virginia began the I'm Just Me Movement in 2013 to assist and support a college opportunity for a young man whose family was going through hard times. This movement impacted their family and their community in unexpected ways. As their outreach of inclusion grew, the movement became a nation-wide non-profit organization in 2015, with a mission of spreading positive acceptance of others and breaking down stereotypes. The organization works to encourage a celebration of the rich scopes of diversity contained within each individual through acceptance and respect for one another.
As the I'm Just Me Movement expanded its efforts to spread understanding of others and healing, the organization began an initiative known as Live Life Forward with a goal of breaking down stereotypes.
Through the Live life forward initiative and related workshops, mentoring programs, and presentations at schools and businesses, the I'm Just Me Movement speaks out to advocate for inclusion and diversity and to raise awareness about bullying and self-esteem issues in order to positively impact youth, families, and communities to guide, teach, train, and mentor them for a better future.
The movement works to remind everyone that the concept of diversity encompasses civility, acceptance, mutual respect, and understanding that each individual is unique.
Throughout the month of October, the I'm Just Me Because movement is focusing on promoting individual development, creating environments that break down stereotypes, and embracing individuality by recognizing the diversity around us and moving beyond simple tolerance to celebrating all of humanity.
Madam Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in recognizing the contributions of Ms. Tina Stevens and the I'm Just Me Movement has made in our community and the Nation.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 160(1), Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 160(2)
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