Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is a reminder of the importance of inclusivity, understanding, and breaking down barriers for those with developmental disabilities.
The 2024 theme, “A World of Possibilities,” focuses on people working together to remove obstacles so everyone can do well and succeed. “‘A World of Opportunities’ – we’re celebrating people and working together to remove obstacles. Our goal is to build a community that’s committed to creating a world where everyone can do well and succeed. Join us in making a world where all kinds of people have the chance to thrive,” the NACDD website states.
“…universities can make an accessible infrastructure campuswide, offer assistive technologies, and promote inclusive teaching methods to create an environment where every student can thrive.”
DDAM encourages awareness, promotes inclusion, and challenges societal norms and biases that may perpetuate discrimination. Dedicating a month to this cause helps facilitate conversations around accessibility, equal opportunities, and the rights of individuals with I/DD.
Challenges Faced by Those With I/DD
I/DD can take various forms, such as physical, cognitive, sensory, and developmental disabilities. Each person’s experience is unique, highlighting the diversity within the community. These disabilities can manifest early in life and often impact a person’s ability to learn, communicate, and perform everyday tasks.
Living with a disability comes with many challenges from physical barriers to limited access to education and employment opportunities, societal stigma, and others. The impact of these challenges vary depending on the specific disability, its severity, and the level of support available.
Promoting Inclusivity in Higher Education and Beyond
In higher education, Developmental Disability Awareness Month emphasizes the active promotion of inclusivity. Educational institutions should create environments accommodating diverse abilities, ensuring equal opportunities for all students. 
For many institutions, this involves investing in a campus and culture that highly values diversity and inclusion. For example, universities can make an accessible infrastructure campuswide, offer assistive technologies, and promote inclusive teaching methods to create an environment where every student can thrive.
In the professional realm, employers are encouraged to actively promote workplace inclusivity by providing accessible facilities, implementing flexible work arrangements, and fostering a culture that strongly values diversity and inclusion.
For more information and resources about Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, visit NACCD online.
