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March is DD Awareness Month
March is Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month, a time to highlight and honor how people with and without disabilities come together to form strong communities. This year, TCDD joins the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) and disability advocates across the country to recognize our neighbors, friends, and family members with DD. The 2026 theme, We're Here: Then, Now, Always, highlights how far the disability community has come and why continued advocacy efforts are crucial for inclusive community living.
Throughout the month, TCDD will share opportunities to stay connected and get involved in increasing disability awareness on the state and national levels. People with disabilities are here! Join us in sharing their history and accomplishments.
Then, Now, Always.
Raising awareness for disability advocacy is not limited to one month of the year. Throughout the year, community members will have opportunities to participate in NACDD’s We’re Here initiatives. Check out the resources below to get involved, share your story, and connect with key decision-makers!
Read Gov. Abbott’s DD Awareness Month Proclamation
In his DD Awareness Month proclamation, Gov. Greg Abbott states, “Texas is better off when all citizens can flourish, so we must commit ourselves to do everything possible to facilitate personal and professional success for people with developmental disabilities.” You can read the full proclamation (PDF) from the State of Texas Office of the Governor.
Introduce Yourself to Lawmakers
We’re Here has launched a relationship-building campaign to help individuals with DD, family members, and the community at large build relationships with lawmakers at the local, state, and federal levels.
Learn About Supported Decision-Making
In 2015, Texas became the first state to put supported decision-making into law. This alternative to legal guardianship supports people to make their own decisions while receiving any help they need to do so. You can learn more about supported decision-making and find additional resources and videos from Disability Rights Texas.
Coming Soon: Portrait Gallery Submissions
This year, NACCD will accept portraits and stories from disability advocates from across the country. They want to know about you! Stay tuned to learn more about how to submit your portrait.
Next Level Advocacy
Are you ready to launch your disability advocacy skills in 2026? Texas Partners in Policymaking (Partners) is now accepting applications for its 2026-2027 class! This online program builds bridges between advocates, policymakers, and communities
Over six weekend sessions, Partners equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to influence policy and drive progress that shapes a better future for Texans with disabilities.
If you’re ready to take action, this is your chance to join a network of changemakers who believe in creating systems that work for everyone.
Connecting with Texas Communities
Texas communities are stronger when everyone has access and the opportunity to reach their goals. Throughout March, TCDD Disability Community Coordinators, in partnership with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, are connecting with communities throughout the state in honor of DD Awareness Month. This includes connecting with local governments and encouraging community leaders to share DD Awareness Month proclamations.
Want to get your community involved? Connect with your Disability Community Coordinator today!
