May Celebrations & Observances
Throughout the month of May, we recognize numerous observances focused on advancing equity, reducing stigma, and boosting quality of life, particularly for those with disabilities. Additionally, many of this month’s observances bring attention to specific disabilities and ways to bolster support for these communities. Read on to learn more about this month’s celebrations and observances.
Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) Day: May 1
May kicked off with IPSE Day, focused on spreading the word about why postsecondary education is an important option for people with intellectual disabilities. Right now, only about 5% of US colleges and universities have options for students with intellectual disabilities, according to the University of Massachusetts Boston—which is why IPSE Day works to increase awareness, access, and options. You can learn more about IPSE Day using the link above, and learn more about Colorado’s inclusive higher education options here.
Global Developmental Delay Awareness Day: May 1
Global Developmental Delay (GDD) is a diagnosis for children ages 5 or younger who are experiencing significant delay in at least two areas of development, either due to a known or unknown cause. GDD Awareness Day is about raising awareness to promote better support for children with GDD and their families.
International 5p- Syndrome Awareness Month: May 1-May 31
5p- Syndrome, also called Cri du Chat Syndrome, is an IDD that can cause a range of symptoms such as poor muscle tone, difficulty with language, cognitive delays, and more. The 5p- Society established this observance to encourage action in support of the 5p- Syndrome community, listing multiple ways to act on their website.
Mental Health Awareness Month: May 1-May 31
This observance encourages those who have experienced mental health symptoms to share their stories and reduce stigma. It also encourages one and all to learn how they can support their own mental health, as well as support others who are experiencing mental health symptoms. Read our article above to learn more about Mental Health Awareness Month.
National Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month: May 1-May 31
Prader-Willi Syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes chronic hunger, poor muscle tone, and cognitive and behavioral symptoms. In addition to raising awareness, this month is also about a building a nationwide network of support for people with Prader-Willi Syndrome and their families.
Williams Syndrome Awareness Month: May 1-May 31
A genetic disorder, Williams Syndrome is associated with intellectual disability, facial feature differences, and high blood calcium levels, among other symptoms. The goal of Williams Syndrome Awareness Month is to bring attention to the disability and encourage additional research to support those with Williams Syndrome.
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