Grand Rapids Reporter

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is highlighting the contributions made by citizens in the state with developmental hardships.

There are approximately 180,000 people in the state with a developmental disability, according to the MDHHS website. The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) is hosting events to highlight concerns about people living with developmental disabilities.

"Each person in our state, including those with developmental disabilities, can share their abilities and make contributions to Michigan communities," Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director, said. "At MDHHS, we are committed to helping those with developmental disabilities reach their highest potential, and we encourage those in our state to work together and ensure full inclusion with those with disabilities."

DD Council activism efforts include: eradicating the notion of paying minimum wage to a person with a disability, informing people with developmental disabilities about voting rights, supporting the need for accessible and affordable housing, and providing sexual education to mitigate the risks of people with developmental disabilities being abused and exploited, the website said.  

A town hall will be held in conjunction with Michigan’s COVID-19 vaccine town hall series for people with disabilities and those who advocate for their safety. The event will occur on March 25 at 11 a.m. at Facebook.com/MichiganHHS.

“The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services encourages all citizens not only to recognize Michigan's advances concerning persons with disabilities, but also to acknowledge that our work to ensure full inclusion and integration of persons with disabilities into employment and community-based settings is not yet done,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a proclamation.