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 Wednesday 16 November and Friday 16 December 2022.
UK Disability History Month (UKDHM) - search @UKDHM or use #UKDHM to share - 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 and this year’s theme is Disability, Health and Wellbeing.
Building on the success of last year’s first-ever Disability History Month, the month-long programme of events - led by the DisAbility and Wellbeing Network (DAWN) - boasts mindfulness sessions, a disability showcase, low sensory sports, and a ceramics workshop for the visually impaired.
Meredith Wilkinson, DAWN co-chair said: "This will be DMU's second Disability History Month, and we have some fantastic virtual and in-person events coming up. The fact that DMU marks Disability History Month is reflective of our Empowering University strategy, to strive for equality and a fairer society, and it is also a nod to the diversity we have here on campus."
"The theme for 2022 is disability, health and wellbeing and we are hosting a series of events with a focus on health and wellbeing, including mindfulness, Tai Chi, and learning about being a disability ally.
"We are also continuing to highlight that not all disabilities, medical and/or mental health conditions are visible, and in collaboration with DMU Women’s network we look forward to welcoming ‘The Girl With Curly Hair’ who are leading a webinar about autism in females.
"Our network strives to promote a culture where everyone at DMU, whether staff or student, feels able to be open about the barriers they face because of a disability, medical condition, learning difference or mental health condition, so that we can become more inclusive.
"We do hope that you can come along to one of the sessions during the month to become more disability conscious and to promote equality and diversity at DMU."
Kimberlin Library display
Throughout the month there will be a display of books on the ground floor of the Kimberlin Library, reflecting this year’s theme of ‘disability, health and wellbeing’. All books in the display will be available to be borrowed by DMU students and staff.
UKDHM launch event
UKDHM will be holding their own online launch event, taking place on Thursday 17 November, 7pm – 8.30pm. To register, email callumrussell@crconsultancy.org with your name, telephone number and mention DMU, and you will be sent the zoom link 24 hours before the event.
Join the DisAbility and Wellbeing Network
If you would like to join the DisAbility and Wellbeing Network, please email equality@dmu.ac.uk or complete the online form.