Truman to Host Disability Awareness Week

“Label Me Able” is a week-long awareness campaign that aims to promote the use of person-first and inclusive language. Person-first language is actively choosing to see the person before the disability, and fosters a holistic approach to viewing disabilities. These events encourage others to see the whole person and all of their abilities.

People-First Presentation
6:30 p.m.
March 16
Health Science Building 1206
The week will kick off with a presentation by Chuck Comstock, of Kirksville Regional Office and People First of Missouri. He will speak about his own disability, as well as the importance of person-first language and appreciating each person for his or her own unique abilities.

“I Am Sam” Movie Screening
6 p.m.
March 18
Violette Hall 1010
This movie looks at cognitive disabilities on a family and societal level. It illustrates that society’s prejudices and lack of understanding are the barriers to living in a society that actively looks past the disability.

Invisible Disabilities
6 p.m.
March 19
Magruder 2090
Jennifer Hurst, from the Health and Exercise Science Department, will be giving a presentation about her own struggle with invisible disabilities. These are common in society, but because of the societal stigma of being labeled with one, most people suffer without getting help. Hurst will discuss what it is like to work through, the importance of asking for help when needed and how society needs to be more open and less judgmental.  

Throughout the week, tables will be set up on the Quad and in the Student Union Building with large puzzle pieces for students to sign. The signatures represent a pledge to actively work on using person-first and inclusive language.