The White House has issued an official presidential proclamation for the year 2024, recognizing the significance of March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC) applauds President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris for their continued support in the fight against colorectal cancer. On January 16, 2024, a collective effort involving 33 organizations, alongside Fight CRC, reached out to President Biden, advocating for the national recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in 2024.

The White House, in partnership with millions of colorectal cancer survivors, caregivers, and advocates from all corners of the nation, comes together to raise awareness about this pressing issue. In an official press release, the administration passionately underscored their recommitment to, “supporting all those helping drive progress against cancer and delivering incredible care to those facing this disease.  We affirm our goal of ending cancer as we know it, once and for all.” 

This March, over 300 colorectal cancer survivors, caregivers, and loved ones will plant over 27,000 flags on the National Mall to represent those who will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the year 2030, a year when colorectal cancer is projected to become the leading cancer killer among those ages 20-49. Fight CRC advocates understand the urgency around this disturbing statistic and are asking members of Congress for more funding for research during Call-on Congress this March. This event serves as a powerful symbol, shedding light on colorectal cancer as a national priority while paying tribute to those engaged in this critical fight.

"We express our gratitude for the White House's ongoing commitment to bolstering awareness during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month," stated Anjee Davis, President of Fight CRC. "In March, we take pride in uniting with leaders in colorectal cancer screening and dedicated stakeholders, as we advocate for increased screening, funding, research, and most importantly, for the preservation of more lives." 

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month resonates at both local and national levels through the success of Fight CRC's state proclamation campaign. Across the nation, hundreds of CRC survivors, caregivers, and loved ones have passionately submitted proclamations to their respective states, effectively recognizing CRC Awareness Month. Remarkably, nearly all 50 states have now issued state proclamations, under the leadership of their governors. 

Molly McDonnell, Fight CRC Vice President of Advocacy, praised the commitment of colorectal cancer advocates: 

"Year after year, advocates ensure that their states, towns, and local communities across the country are a part of March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. This annual campaign continues to grow in size and influence, a testament to the unwavering strength and determination of this community. Colorectal cancer can be prevented if caught early, but one in three people are not up-to-date with colorectal cancer screening. Our annual state proclamation campaign serves as a key opportunity to promote awareness in individual states and communities and garner support for research, screening, and funding." 

As advocates, governors, and the President come together to observe March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in 2024, Fight CRC urges individuals, communities, and policymakers to join them in this critical fight. Visit our Advocacy page to act today.

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