About Disability History:

What is Disability History Week?

Many states are taking an important step in the promotion of further understanding and awareness of disability history and the disability rights movement by designating a week (or more) to acknowledge the role and contributions of individuals with disabilities in our society. During an established Disability History Week, states will require their public school to infuse instruction and activities related to disability history into the existing school curriculum. Twenty-three states, including New York, Florida, Iowa, Massachusetts and Washington are already implementing Disability History Week.

Why Does it Matter?

It is important that California students understand history to appreciate how individuals with disabilities were once viewed and treated. During Disability History Week, students will have an opportunity to learn about how people with disabilities were instrumental in changing history, and how they became active participants in changing societal attitudes about their needs, desires and capabilities. By teaching disability history in schools, we are taking the necessary steps to ensure that history is not repeated and that there continues to be movement towards an even more accessible society in future generations.

When Would It Happen?

Disability History Week would be scheduled in October in conjunction with National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Become a Youth Volunteer Campaign Organizer:
Join the campaign and be a Volunteer Youth Organizer

Get Involved:

Sign the petition to make Disability History Week a part of California School Curriculum

Read:
Perspectives on the Historical Treatment of People with Disabilities (a .pdf file posted by University of Arizona)

Tools for Campaign Organizers:

Visit: