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 Thursday 14 November and Friday 20 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.
UKDHM aims to achieve equality for those with disabilities and to challenge disablism by exploring oppression. This year's theme is Disability Livelihood and Employment.
Building on the success of last year's third Disability History Month at DMU, the month-long programme of events – led by the DisAbility and Wellbeing Network (DAWN) – will kick off with a launch event on Monday 18 November. Staff and students are invited to come along and enjoy live music, stalls with DMU's disability support and a chance to view our Disability Visibility showcase. No tickets are required for this event and speeches and music will begin at 12.30pm.
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."
Susan Orr, Pro Vice-Chancellor Education and Equalities, said: "Disability History Month is an important event in our calendar where we can reflect and raise awareness about disabled people's fight for equality.
"Although we strive for inclusivity all year round, it's important that we dedicate a whole month to stamping out stereotypes, barriers and prejudices that still impact our disabled staff and students today.
"I look forward to coming along to the events that are planned throughout the month and encourage you all to do the same."
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.
Disability History Month events at DMU:
Disability History Month launch event (in-person)
Monday 18 November, 12-2pm
Campus Centre Atrium
Voices of Ability: Navigating Work and Life with Disabilities (online)
Wednesday 20 November, 11-12.30pm
Microsoft Teams
In conversation with Julie Harris
Wednesday 20 November, 4-5pm
Microsoft Teams
Use of Support Dogs when providing therapy to those with disAbility(ies)
Tuesday 26 November, 1-2pm
Hawthorn Building, HB00.36
The Benefits of Meditation in Managing the Physical and Emotional Aspects of Disability- Celina Czarnecka
Thursday 5 December, 12-1pm
Microsoft Teams
The History of Neurodiversity with Dr Chris Knifton
Thursday 12 December, 10-11am
Microsoft Teams
Raise awareness during UKDHM
On social media search for @UKDHM or use #UKDHM to share your posts. For DMU specific events please use the #DMUDHM2024 hashtag to get us trending.
Posted on Friday 8 November 2024