Awareness is the First Step Toward Acceptance

In observation of March as MRDD Awareness Month the Ardmore Foundation, the County of Summit Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities and Hattie Larlham encourage people to learn more about the thousands of northern Ohioans who have disabilities.

Throughout the month of March, organizations devoted to serving individuals with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities (MRDD) will host special events to raise public awareness of the many abilities people have, regardless of disability. During this time, many northern Ohio citizens will focus on welcoming people with disabilities into local neighborhoods, workplaces, houses of worship and schools.

What can I do?

The US Developmental Disabilities Act states that disability is a natural part of the human experience. A disability does not diminish the right of individuals to live independently, exert control and choice over their own lives or fully participate in and contribute to their communities through full integration and inclusion in the economic, political, social, cultural and educational mainstream of US society.

Acknowledging ability before disability requires the entire community to make a change. First, everyone must learn to focus on the person not the disability when speaking about an individual with a disability. By incorporating “people first” language, a manner of speaking that puts priority on a person rather than their disability, the community can engage in meaningful, inclusive conversation.

“People first” language can easily be practiced in everyday life. There is only one general rule to follow—mention the person before the disability. An example of this includes, when you see a child in a wheelchair do not refer to him or her as a handicapped child but rather as a child who uses a wheelchair. Also, if you see a man with mental retardation working at a local supermarket refer to him by his title, such as store associate, and only mention the disability if it is relevant. By utilizing this practice, you will see the person instead of the disability.

What will you do today to make our world a better place for everyone?

The first step is brought to you by:
Hattie Larlham | Ardmore, Inc. | County of Summit Board of MR/DD