Supporting the designation of September 22 as National Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day and recognizing the Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Flag.
Summary
This House Resolution supports designating September 22 as "National Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day" and recognizes the Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Flag (SAR Flag). The resolution aims to raise awareness of the high suicide rates among veterans and military personnel, break the stigma associated with mental health treatment, and honor those who have died by suicide. It also encourages the display of the SAR Flag at federal buildings to symbolize national commitment to this cause.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would formally recognize September 22 as a day for national awareness and remembrance of veteran suicide. It would also promote the SAR Flag as a symbol of commitment to addressing this issue. This could lead to increased awareness, reduced stigma, and potentially greater utilization of suicide prevention services by veterans and military personnel.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of veteran suicide and mental health challenges.
- Reduced stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.
- Formal recognition and remembrance of veterans who died by suicide.
- Symbol of hope and support for living veterans and military personnel.
- Promotion of open dialogue and understanding about mental health issues.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution itself does not allocate funding or resources for mental health services.
- Its impact depends on public awareness and willingness to engage with the issue.
- The symbolic gesture may not be sufficient to address the complex underlying causes of veteran suicide.
- There may be debates about the appropriateness of displaying the SAR Flag alongside the American Flag and POW/MIA Flag.
- The resolution is non-binding, meaning there is no legal requirement to follow through with its recommendations.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to address a significant public health issue affecting veterans. While the Constitution does not explicitly address suicide awareness, the government's role in promoting the well-being of its citizens, particularly those who have served in the military, is generally accepted. The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, which would include the right to display the SAR flag.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).