Orange for DDA

Written by: Sitara Nair

March is a significant month for a variety of reasons; it serves as National Women’s History Month, celebrates Saint Patrick’s Day, and marks the beginning of the Spring season. March is also important for another reason: it is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. 

Developmental disabilities (DD) are conditions that affect how a person grows and develop throughout life. They usually start in childhood and can change the way someone learns, talks, or interacts with others. Depending on the type of disability, people might need different amounts of help to reach their full potential and enjoy a good quality of life. A couple examples of developmental disabilities are: Autism spectrum disorder, Cerebral palsy,Intellectual disability, Down syndrome, Learning disabilities, and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is vital that we bring awareness to these disabilities, because it helps everyone understand the challenges those affected face. When people are informed, they can offer better support, create a more accepting community, and work towards policies that give everyone equal opportunities.

It was President Ronald Reagan (1911-2004), who first recognized March as NDDAM, to “encouragement and opportunities they need to lead productive lives and to achieve their full potential.” The event was originally known as National Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, but would later be changed.The initiative combines educational events and workshops, advocacy campaigns, media coverage, and community service projects to inform and engage the community.

Furthermore, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD), and the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) team up in a campaign to show how individuals with and without disabilities come together to build strong communities. This year’s National DDAM theme is "We are here all Year.” We’re Here All Year stresses that community, accessibility, and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities should be recognized and supported every day—not only in March. Orange, a color that symbolizes energy and positivity, is the official color of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, so a simple way to celebrate is to invite your friends to wear orange, and celebrate those who are affected by developmental disabiliteis. 

All month long during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we have a strong opportunity to celebrate the rights and potential of everyone. This is the month to learn, to share powerful stories, and take action to create communities where everyone is valued and supported. YOU should wear orange, participate in local events, and spread the message on social media to create a real difference! Think about attending educational workshops and engaging in advocacy campaigns that break barriers and construct a more inclusive community. Your efforts can really contribute to ensuring access to resources and respect for individuals with developmental disabilities. Let us work together daily to build a future where all individuals have a chance to prosper.