On October 9, the House approved, by unanimous consent, a resolution (H. Res. 254) that supports the goals of Pregnancy and Infant Remembrance Day. Sponsored by Rep. Dick Armey (R-TX), the resolution states that observance of such a day gives validation to those who have lost a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, or other complications and increases the public’s understanding of the tragedy involved in the deaths of unborn and newborn babies. More than 35 states have designated October 15, 2001, as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.
In her support of the resolution, Rep. Jo Ann Davis (R-VA) noted, “even the shortest lives are valuable and we must not underestimate or trivialize the grief of those who mourn these lost lives.”
Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL) agreed, saying that when a baby or child dies, “there is deep grief for the hopes, dreams and wishes that will never be. What is left behind is a sense of loss and a need for understanding.” He later added that the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is also necessary to “show, display, and demonstrate a level of understanding and sensitivity to those who are indeed experiencing the loss.” For these individuals, “a level of understanding is something that we can all give,” he said.
