Intellectual Disability Awareness Day

What Is Intellectual Disability Awareness Day?

September 10th is "Intellectual Disability Awareness Day" in Japan, established in 1964 by the Japan Federation of Welfare for the Mentally Retarded (now the Japanese Association of Social Welfare Corporations for the Intellectually Disabled).

A Day Born to Spread Understanding of Intellectual Disability

This anniversary carries a wish for society as a whole to support people with intellectual disabilities.

• Its purpose: to deepen society's understanding of people with intellectual disabilities and raise broad awareness about improving their welfare
• How the name changed: the term used at the time of its founding was later revised, and the anniversary's name changed accordingly to reflect current terminology for intellectual disability
• How the founding organization changed: the organization that established the day has since been renamed and continues its work today as the Japanese Association of Social Welfare Corporations for the Intellectually Disabled

A Change in Terminology That Reflects Progress in Disability Welfare

The shift in terminology used to describe intellectual disability reflects more than a simple change of words -- it mirrors a broader shift in social awareness toward respecting the dignity of people with disabilities. The history of this anniversary itself tells the story of Japan's progress in disability welfare.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Learn accurate information about intellectual disabilities
• Learn about organizations and activities that support people with intellectual disabilities
• Reflect on the accessibility and universal design features around you
• Think about what you personally can do to help build a society where everyone can live comfortably

Individual Understanding Is a Solid Step Toward an Inclusive Society

Building a society where people with intellectual disabilities can live with peace of mind starts with each person gaining accurate understanding. Let September 10th be a chance to learn about the welfare of people with intellectual disabilities and reflect on building a more inclusive society.