The first half of 2008 has seen two states pass Disability History Week/Month legislation, a historic step in educating youth about disabilities and the disability rights movement. In…
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"If you believe people have no history worth mentioning, it's easy to believe they have no humanity worth defending"
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What is it?
States are taking an important step in the promotion of further understanding and awareness of disability history and the disability rights movement by designating a week (or more) to acknowledge the role and contributions of individuals with disabilities in our society. During an established Disability History Week, states will require their public schools to infuse instruction and activities related to disability history into the existing school curriculum.
Why?
It is important that our youth understand history in order to appreciate how individuals with disabilities were once viewed and treated. During Disability History Week, students will be provided with the opportunity to learn how people with disabilities were instrumental in changing history, and how they became active participants in changing societal attitudes about their needs, desires and capabilities. By teaching disability history in schools, we are taking the necessary steps to ensure that history is not repeated and that there continues to be movement towards an even more accessible society in future generations.
When?
Many states are following the precedent set by West Virginia in establishing the third week of October as Disability History Week. Thus far, all states are targeting the month of October, which is also National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Legislation
Click here to review Disability History Week legislation in the states.