International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Uplifting the Voices of Special Needs Communities

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), observed annually on Dec. 3, was established by the United Nations in 1992. Its purpose is to promote the rights, dignity, well-being, and full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life.

How IDPD Relates to Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

People with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs) often face multiple, intersecting barriers that limit their ability to fully exercise their rights and participate on an equal basis with others. These may include:

• Attitudinal obstacles, such as stigma, misunderstanding, or low expectations.

  
  

• Structural obstacles, such as inaccessible or unsupportive education systems, workplaces, or communities.

  
  

• Informational and communication barriers, when persons with IDDs aren’t provided with supports, assistive technologies, or communication formats suited to their needs.

IDPD is critical for shining a spotlight on these issues and advancing change, because the observance emphasizes not just inclusion, but leadership and agency.

How to Mark IDPD in Ways That Uplift People With IDDs

To make IDPD meaningful and respectful for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, organizers and advocates can take steps such as:

• Involve people with IDDs: Include special needs adults in planning events, in leadership roles, and in decision-making about policies that affect them.

  
  

• Make communications accessible: Use easy-read formats, visuals, plain language, and augmentative and alternative communication, so messages reach people with intellectual or developmental differences.

  
  

• Focus on power and pride, not pity: Highlight capabilities, contributions, and achievements. Move away from a deficit narrative toward one of disability rights, agency, and belonging.

  
  

• Advocate for systemic change: Push for accessible services, inclusive education, employment opportunities, community living supports, and laws that protect people with IDDs from discrimination.

  
  

• Raise awareness in workplaces, schools, and communities: Promote training, stories, and public education to reduce stigma and build supportive environments.

Why the Inclusion of People With IDDs Matters

Inclusive societies are stronger societies. People with IDDs bring unique perspectives, talents, and contributions that benefit families, workplaces, arts, science, culture, and civic life. Ensuring they have equal opportunity:

• Increases diversity of voices for better community decisions

  
  

• Promotes innovation (for example, in communication tools or assistive technologies)

  
  

• Aligns with global UN goals around education, justice, and reducing inequalities

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is far more than a symbolic observance: it’s a call to action. This December 3, we can all contribute to this vital cause by listening, adapting, advocating, and changing our policies to build societies where all people can fully thrive.

Celebrate the Abilities of Special Needs Adults With Progressive Lifestyles

Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Waterford, Michigan, and we have been in operation since 1983. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for individuals with IDDs throughout Oakland County.

We support small, licensed adult foster care homes and private residences with community living supports, home help services, and private-duty nurses.

A primary focus of our organization is to interact with the individuals we support through the “Culture of Gentleness” model. We seek to create a positive environment to help them feel safe and valued by maximizing praise, limiting demands, maintaining consistent structure, and reducing stress during transitions. Contact us to learn more, and consider donating today!