Hawaii Celebrates Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

According to a recent news release, the event included more than 400 self-advocates, family members, friends, and service providers. The event highlighted March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Hawaii and a governor’s proclamation will be presented.

The theme of the event was, Side by Side, encouraging people to understand that individuals with and without developmental disabilities should participate together within their local neighborhoods, workplaces, houses of worship, schools, and other areas. The article further stated “When we look past a person’s disability and recognize our similarities, everyone benefits and brings awareness of the barriers that people with developmental disabilities face in connecting to community life.”

Participants received a briefing from the council and had the opportunity to participate in the legislative process by discussing developmental disabilities-related issues, concerns, and measures with legislators from their home districts.