Title
To Recognize March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Body
WHEREAS, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) 2026 unites communities nationwide to empower people with developmental disabilities, their families, and allies to build welcoming and supportive communities, ensuring that people with developmental disabilities can live a self-directed life in the community, and;
WHEREAS, independence is not a privilege but a fundamental right, and individuals with developmental disabilities deserve equitable opportunities to make choices about their lives, pursue meaningful goals, and contribute their unique talents to society, and;
WHEREAS, DDAM serves as a platform to celebrate the unique journeys and successes of individuals with developmental disabilities, highlighting the diverse pathways to independence and underscoring the value of an inclusive society, and;
WHEREAS, collective efforts in advocacy, education, and engagement can significantly enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and accessible community, and;
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus reaffirms its commitment to becoming a model community for individuals with developmental disabilities, recognizing the importance of creating pathways to independence through unwavering community support and equitable opportunities; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby declare the month of March 2026 to be Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Columbus, Ohio, and encourages all residents to learn more about Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and how they can best support and advocate for these individuals and their families.