Heartland Bridge

Archives: Events

  • World Autism Awareness Day

    World Autism Awareness Day encourages countries and communities to raise awareness about autism, support autistic individuals and promote human rights, inclusion and acceptance.

    In our celebration of this day, we hope to shift the focus away from simply awareness towards full acceptance.  As you continue through April, the World Autism Acceptance Month, we hope you will advocate for autistic people in your community and demonstrate the inclusion and acceptance of them in every wonderful form they take.

  • World Down Syndrome Day

    World Down Syndrome Day promotes inclusion, advocates for the rights of people with Down Syndrome, and educates the public about the genetic condition.

    The date (3/21) represents the triplication of the 21st chromosome (Trisomy 21) that causes Down Syndrome.

    Be sure to wear bright, mismatched socks or fun socks to start conversations about diversity and differences.

    Check out the rest of our calendar for other opportunities to support local organizations, discuss topics as a community and promote inclusion in our community and workplaces.

  • National Disability Independence Day

    Today we celebrate the passage of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990.

    The law is split into five major parts:

    • EMPLOYMENT = requires fair hiring, pay and job options.
    • STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT = ensures public programs, services and buildings are open and usable.
    • PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS = requires private businesses open to the public to be accessible.
    • TELECOMMUNICATIONS = provide closed captioning and relay services for people with  speech or hearing loss.
    • MISCELLANEOUS = covers legal rules, state immunity, etc.