October Celebrations & Observances
October is jam-packed with meaningful observances that recognize different parts of the disability community. Other observances this month promote safety for one and all, such as National Bullying Prevention Month and Digital Citizenship Week. Read on to learn how you can recognize these observances.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM): Oct 1-Oct 31
NDEAM celebrates the talents of workers with disabilities and advocates for greater inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace. See our article above to read the stories of workers with disabilities in our community! Learn more about NDEAM here.
Down Syndrome Awareness Month: Oct 1-Oct 31
This month is all about the diverse and valuable abilities, goals, and accomplishments of people with Down syndrome. It also promotes advocacy and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome. Learn more here.
Spina Bifida Awareness Month: Oct 1-Oct 31
Celebrate the contributions of people who have Spina Bifida, learn more about the disability, and advocate for the needs of the Spina Bifida community during Spina Bifida Awareness Month. Learn more here.
National Bullying Prevention Month: Oct 1-Oct 31
Research shows that millions of children are bullied each year, and children with disabilities are more likely to be bullied than their nondisabled peers. Every October, National Bullying Prevention Month is observed to help combat these critical issues. Learn more about preventing bullying here.
Italian American Heritage Month: Oct 1-Oct 31
Alongside celebrating the contributions of all Italian Americans, this month is a chance to learn more about changemaking Italian Americans with disabilities. Click here to read about Italian American disability advocates and their contributions.
Polish American Heritage Month: Oct 1-Oct 31
Polish American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate Polish American history, culture, and communities, including Polish Americans with disabilities and their achievements. Learn more here.
Anniversary of Rosa’s Law: Oct 5
15 years ago, on October 5, President Obama signed a bill called Rosa’s Law, which ended the use of the r-word in federal laws and policies. Then and now, this change has been a reminder that discriminatory language should have no place in our society. Learn more here.
World Cerebral Palsy Day: Oct 6
On World Cerebral Palsy Day, we recognize the successes of people with Cerebral Palsy (CP). This month is also about understanding the need for increased acceptance and inclusion of people with CP. Learn more here.
World Mental Health Day: Oct 10
Among other goals, World Mental Health Day encourages all to take steps to improve their mental health. According to the CDC, people with disabilities are at an even greater risk of experiencing frequent mental distress than their peers, making this day so important for our community. Learn more about World Mental Health Day.
Digital Citizenship Week: Oct 20-Oct 24
During this week, take a moment to consider how you can be safe and responsible online. The Green Mountain Self-Advocates have created two helpful tools to help you make sure you are making safe decisions while using the internet: “Dealing with Scams and Abuse” and “Dating on the Internet.”
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