The resolution designates June 23 of each year as International Widows Day to raise awareness about the challenges faced by widows both in the United States and globally. It highlights the staggering statistics provided by the United Nations, which estimates that there are approximately 260 million widows worldwide, with nearly one in ten living in extreme poverty. In the U.S., around one million women become widowed annually, and 70% of married women will experience widowhood in their lifetime. The resolution emphasizes that many widows are younger than commonly perceived, with a median age of 59, and often lack adequate support from social services and policies.

The resolution calls for the Governor to issue an annual proclamation to encourage public officials and citizens to observe International Widows Day through appropriate programs and activities. It aims to draw attention to the ongoing struggles faced by widows, including financial and legal difficulties, mental and physical health issues, and the loss of health insurance. Additionally, it advocates for increased bereavement leave and changes to Social Security regulations to better support widows, while also acknowledging the plight of widows in other countries.