OBSERVING DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH

OBSERVING DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH:
MARCH 2026

March is recognized in Illinois as Developmental Disabilities Month. In recognition of this observance, the Governor has issued the attached proclamation acknowledging individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as valued members of communities across our State, as well as the families, service providers, and professionals who support them. This month provides a time to reflect on the presence, contributions, and experiences of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Illinois.

Within the Illinois Department of Human Services, the Division of Developmental Disabilities supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the lifespan through a range of home and community-based services and programs. Developmental Disabilities Month offers an opportunity to recognize the individuals served by the Division and the systems that support their participation in daily life and community settings across Illinois.

Full proclamation text is below the image.

WHEREAS, intellectual and developmental disabilities are lifelong conditions that begin during childhood and may affect learning, communication, behavior, or physical functioning; and,

WHEREAS, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities contribute to communities in every region of Illinois and are part of families, schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods throughout the state; and,

WHEREAS, the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Developmental Disabilities funds services and supports that assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at different stages of life, including a continuum of care, home and community-based services, residential supports, employment services, respite care, and other specialized programs; and,

WHEREAS, these services are intended to support daily living, personal choice, and participation in community life according to individual direction and needs; and,

WHEREAS, advocates across Illinois play an essential role in advocating with and for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the state; and

WHEREAS, designating a month for developmental disabilities awareness allows individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be recognized as valued members of their communities;

THEREFORE, I JB Pritzker, Governor of Illinois, do hereby proclaim March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Month in Illinois, and recognize the individuals, families, and service systems that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the State.