Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Event
The Arc of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council spearheaded this year’s legislative advocacy day for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. More than 600 advocates attended the March 6 event.
Governor Maura Healey proclaimed March 2025 as Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Massachusetts during the program. The proclamation was presented by Executive Office of Health and Human Services Undersecretary Mary McGeown.
We were very pleased to see such an emphasis on choice and clear support of self-determination in the proclamation. In it, Healy said:
“People with intellectual and developmental disabilities should be able to choose what they want for their lives. This is self-determination. Self-determination improves people’s lives. When people choose for themselves, it creates more opportunities. When people choose for themselves, they can thrive in real jobs for real pay. When people choose for themselves, they get a better education. When people learn about decision-making and choice, they are independent. When people choose for themselves, they can be healthier.”
