June Celebrations & Observances
June is packed with observances that bring light to the support needs of many in our community and present a chance to celebrate pivotal moments in disability history, as well as American history as a whole. Read on to learn more about this month’s celebrations and observances.
Dravet Syndrome Awareness Month: June 1-30
This month promotes awareness of Dravet syndrome, a rare epilepsy condition that often leads to developmental delays and intellectual disability. This year, the Dravet Syndrome Foundation is encouraging supporters to wear purple or create something purple to help raise awareness of the condition, with the goal of improving supports for people with Dravet syndrome.
LGBTQ+ Pride Month: June 1-30
LGBTQ+ Pride Month is a national observance that promotes the celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, identity, and civil rights. The month occurs in June each year to coincide with the anniversary of the Stonewall riots of 1969, often viewed as the beginning of the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement in the US.
Learning Disability Week: June 15-21
Learning disabilities, which often co-occur with IDD, affect the way a person learns information or develops skills. During Learning Disability Week, advocates raise awareness of what it is like to have a learning disability and celebrate the achievements of those with learning disabilities. This year’s theme is “Do you see me?”—highlighting the right of people with learning disabilities to be seen, heard, and valued.
Autistic Pride Day: June 18
Autistic Pride Day occurs every June 18 to celebrate the contributions and identities of people with autism. On this day, many in the autism community also come together to call for change, increased acceptance, and improved supports. This year, the Autistic Pride Day organization is calling on workplaces, governments, and institutions to take six specific actions in support of people with autism.
Juneteenth: June 19
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the US and is a celebration of freedom, equality, and the achievements of Black Americans throughout history. The federal holiday occurs on the anniversary of the day that General Gordon Granger informed Texans that all enslaved people were free under the Emancipation Proclamation, with the holiday encouraging all to reflect and learn more about this important day in history.
DeafBlind Awareness Week: June 25-July 1
DeafBlind Awareness Week promotes awareness, access, and belonging for people who are DeafBlind, including an estimated 2.4 million DeafBlind Americans. This year, the week’s theme will be “Connected by Touch: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges.” Helen Keller Day, honoring the life and achievements of Helen Keller, also takes place during this week on June 27.
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