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March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the abilities of people with developmental disabilities (DD) and to raise awareness about how our communities are stronger when all people are included.
This year's DD Awareness Month theme is "Beyond the Conversation." People have been talking about improving the lives of individuals with DD, but now it's time to move beyond the conversation and take action.
So what can you do to improve the lives of people with DD?
Treat people with DD with dignity and respect
For example, when interacting with a person with DD, talk to the person, not the person who's with them (e.g., their family member or a personal care attendant). If the person with DD is unable to speak, that doesn't mean they can't communicate - take time to learn how the two of you can interact. Learn more about Creating a Community Where All Are Respected and Included.
Support a person with DD in making their own choices
Help people with DD make their own decisions and control their own lives. Supported decision making (SDM) is one alternative to guardianship where a person with a disability chooses someone they trust to help them with important life decisions - like finding a job, where to live, managing money, staying healthy, and more. For more information about this and other alternatives to guardianship, see our Supported Decision Making resources, including our new online SDM Agreement generator tool.
Get involved and volunteer
Find an organization committed to improving the lives of people with DD and join them in their work. At Disability Rights Texas, we have volunteer opportunities for pro bono attorneys and law clerks, as well as on our Board of Directors and PAIMI Council.
Some of the other organizations you can get involved with include The Arc of Texas and the Autism Society of Texas.
And don't forget - taking action doesn't have to be limited to the month of March. We can work year-round to improve the lives of people with DD.
So what action will you take? Let us know by posting about it on social media and tagging us.
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