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May is Older Americans Month
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Posted on May 02 2001
In a renewed effort to recognize the contributions of the Northern Marianas elderly, Lt. Gov. Jesus R. Sablan yesterday endorsed May as Older Americans Month 2001.
More than 30 senior citizens graced the proclamation signing ceremonies held yesterday at the Aging Office.
“Older Americans Month 2001: The Many Faces of Aging”, according to Mr. Sablan is a re-dedication of the CNMI to improving the quality of life of all older persons, their families, and their caregivers.
“By virtue of our traditional cultural heritage, we should continue to give respect and honor to our elders,” said Mr. Sablan.
Mr. Sablan also urged the community to recognize the unique differences among the senior citizens population, stressing the importance of knowing how to serve a myriad of unique ethnic, cultural, inter-and-intra-generational, geographical, and gender-specific interests and needs.
With the whole month of May dedicated to senior citizen-related programs, Mr. Sablan stressed the need to acknowledge the promise and challenges posed by the rapidly increasing multi-cultural and multi-generational aging population.
He said older persons should be treated fairly regardless of age, gender, race, or ethnic background, disability or other status, and to value them independently.
During the signing yesterday, senior citizens read the proclamations in three different languages, underscoring the multi-ethnic group currently served by the Aging Center.
Mr. Sablan asked the community to join hands and observe May as senior citizens month by participating in community projects and pay tribute to Man Amko’s contributions.
