Celebrate Disability History Month at DMU

This year at DMU, we have an exciting and inclusive programme of virtual and in‑person events taking place for Disability History Month (DHM) between Tuesday 14 November and Saturday 16 December.

UK Disability History Month (UKDHM) is an annual, month-long observance of the history of the disability rights movement; a celebration of the lives of disabled people past and present; and a commemoration of the achievements of disabled people. On social media search for @UKDHM or use #UKDHM to share your posts.

UKDHM aims to achieve equality for those with disabilities and to challenge disablism by exploring oppression. This year's theme is Disability, Children and Youth.

Building on the success of last year's second Disability History Month at DMU, the month-long programme of events – led by the DisAbility and Wellbeing Network (DAWN) – boasts a free comedy night featuring featuring Josh Pugh, Britain's Got Talent winner Lee Ridley (aka Lost Voice Guy), Kate Lucas and Will Robbins (all pictured below); a mindfulness session; a disability showcase; a 'Disabled Women in Academia' panel event; and an ADHD drawing workshop.

Meredith Wilkinson, DAWN co-chair said: "We are looking forward to hosting Disability History Month once again at DMU. We have some exciting things coming up for both students and staff. This is a time not only to learn more about disability but to reflect upon our own attitudes towards disability.

"As an empowering and inclusive university, we value the diverse range of staff and students we have at DMU, and events like DHM celebrate that diversity."

Our dedicated Disability History Month microsite contains full details of what's on, plus alumni interviews and lived experiences of disability, and further resources such as tips for more inclusive meetings.

You can also check out our DMU Events calendar for details of how to book onto or access events. Both will continue to be updated throughout the season.

You can also check out our DMU Events calendar for details of how to book onto or access events. Both will continue to be updated throughout the season.

Leanne Herbert, DAWN co-chair said: "I am really looking forward to our programme of exciting and informative events for our third UK Disability History Month at DMU.

"UKDHM is a chance to highlight the history of disability while also looking forward to ways to increase awareness, acceptance and pride.

"Our staff Disability and Wellbeing Network membership continues to grow and I thank colleagues in the network alongside the other teams across DMU for the work that has gone into the planning and realisation of this year's events.

"We welcome disabled staff, students and our allies to come along to events, have fun and increase your understanding of disability inclusion and ways to wellbeing."

UKDHM launch event

UKDHM will be holding its own launch event on Thursday 16 November, 6‑8.30pm online and in person (at Hamilton House, Mabledon Place, London WC1H 9BD). To register, email martha@worldofinclusion.com with your name, telephone number and mention DMU, and you will be sent a Zoom link prior to the event.

Disability History Month at DMU – timetable of events: