Manley Joins JJC for Annual Disability Awareness Day

JOLIET, Ill. – State Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, congratulates Joliet Junior College’s student-led Disability Awareness Club for hosting an event highlighting the experiences of students with disabilities.

The annual event, “Disability Awareness Day,” is organized by JJC students within the club. 

“JJC students and staff should be praised for their constant effort of inclusion and awareness for people with all forms of physical and mental disabilities,” Rep. Manley said. “I thank them for inviting my office to join in this important event.”

The students organized a panel discussion among four active club members with various disabilities who gave voice to common misconceptions about students with disabilities. The panel expressed their own challenges, as well as victories in the classroom. 

“Praise also goes to the students who continue to champion greater inclusion both in and outside of the classroom,” Rep. Manley said.

Rep. Manley recently launched the Illinois Legislative Neurodiversity Caucus, which she co-chairs with Senator Meg Loughran Cappel. It is the first of its kind bicameral, bipartisan caucus. The mission is to create a more equitable and supportive Illinois by advancing these four key cornerstones: support, access, resources and education.

The JJC Annual Disability Day was held October 22 at the JJC Main Campus, Joliet. 

The event coincides with October being national awareness month for disability employment, deficit hyperactivity disorder, Down Syndrome, dyslexia and spina bifida.