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Teaching Disability Rights History, featuring World Parkinson's Day

The history of disability rights is an important part of the story of civil rights, yet it often remains underrepresented in mainstream education and culture. Including this history in classroom lessons and school curriculums can bring the historical struggles and achievements of people with disabilities into modern discussions.   

Should Schools Teach Disability History?

Both teachers and historians agree that learning about disability rights helps students appreciate the challenges faced by individuals and communities, and how these challenges have been overcome through advocacy and determination. By integrating this subject into classrooms, future generations can develop a deeper sense of empathy and social responsibility. 

The YouTube video, "What is an Invisible Disability", from GBH News, argues that schools should include disability history in their lessons. It explains that traditional history often leaves out the stories and challenges of disabled people. By learning about disability history, students can better understand these experiences, which may lead to a fairer society. 







The Push for A New Curriculum


Including disability rights history in education also provides a more large-scale view of human rights struggles and social progress. It emphasizes the importance of equal opportunity and accessibility, inspiring students to advocate for fairness and justice in their own communities. 

The article, "Disability Activists Push for Disability History Curriculum in Schools" from Enabling Devices highlights the ongoing efforts by disability activists to incorporate disability history into school lesson plans. States like Massachusetts have begun incorporating disability rights content and offering related teaching resources, while educators and organizations emphasize the importance of connecting disability history to broader social movements.  

Check out the article here: https://enablingdevices.com/blog/disability-activists-push-for-disability-history-curriculum-in-schools/






What are your thoughts on the history of disability rights? Do you think this should be taught in schools more? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

Featuring...

Today is World Parkinson's Day


World Parkinson’s Day is on Friday, April 11th, 2025. 

World Parkinson’s Day, observed annually on April 11, raises awareness about Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and can cause tremors, stiffness, and balance issues. The day marks the birthday of Dr. James Parkinson, who first described the condition in 1817. Advocacy groups, medical professionals, and individuals affected by the disease use this occasion to promote research, support those living with Parkinson’s, and educate the public about the challenges and advancements in treatment. The red tulip is a global symbol of solidarity for the Parkinson’s community.


Check out Parkinson's UK to learn more: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/get-involved/world-parkinsons-day







Featuring...

Empower Tomorrow: Youth Advocacy Summit 2025





This FREE conference will focus on Leadership Advocacy Skills: Understanding School to Adult Life Transition and Healthcare/ Wellness Goals

Join us in person to learn strategies and resources from SPAN!

There will be a variety of Exhibitors providing resources.


***PLEASE READ***

Parents and caregivers (who can attend separate tracks) must accompany the conference with their young adult/youth. SPAN does not provide support to individuals, but they are welcome to provide their support person.


***DISCLAIMER***

No youth/young adults can be left unattended or dropped off at the event at any time.


Contact Nicole Pratt at npratt@spanadvocacy.org for any questions.


Date and Time: Saturday, April 26 · 8:30am - 3pm EDT

Location: Mercer County College Conference Center

1200 Old Trenton Road West Windsor Township, NJ 08550


Register To Attend: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/empower-tomorrow-youth-advocacy-summit-2025-tickets-1236331644229?aff=ebdsoporgprofile


The SPAN Youth Chat

Join us virtually on May 7th from 4:15 to 5:00 PM with the SPAN Youth Engagement Team on a topic about advocacy and youth empowerment. More details to come. 



Resources...

Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726.

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