September Celebrations & Observances
In September, the disability community has plenty to celebrate, recognize, and advocate for—from thanking and supporting the professionals who support us to rallying each eligible voter in the disability community to exercise their right to vote. Read on to learn more about this month’s celebrations and observances.
National Deaf Awareness Month: Sept 1-Sept 30
This month promotes understanding of the culture, languages, diversity, and challenges faced by people who are Deaf. This includes many people who are also in the IDD community, as those with IDD experience deafness or hearing loss at a much greater rate than those without IDD. Some ways to observe National Deaf Awareness Month include learning about the barriers that Deaf people may face, advocating for the rights of the Deaf community, and taking a sign language class or workshop. International Week of Deaf People also takes place this month from September 21-27, and International Day of Sign Languages takes place September 23.
Direct Support Professional Recognition Week: Sept 13-19
Direct Support Professionals, or DSPs, support people with disabilities in a variety of ways, including assisting with Activities of Daily Living, providing support with employment or transportation, and more. This national celebration is a chance to thank the DSP in your life and learn more about ongoing challenges, like low wages, that can make it difficult for professionals to continue working as DSPs. Looking for a way to make a difference for DSPs? Click the link above to learn how you can urge Congress to better support the DSP workforce.
Disability Voting Rights Week: Sept 14-18
Beginning on the second Monday of September each year, we celebrate Disability Voting Rights Week (DVRW). People with disabilities account for a large number of potential voters—an estimated 40.2 million eligible voters in the US have a disability, according to the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD). But unfortunately, people with disabilities sometimes face barriers to voting. DVRW seeks to help by making sure that people with disabilities are prepared and empowered to vote—and it’s a great time to make sure you’re registered and your registration is up-to-date!
| 
