February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM)
Amy Murphy, Jewish Abilities Atlanta Manager
Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM) has become a unifying factor in the Jewish community, elevating the voices of people with disabilities and mental health conditions. Nearly 20% of the population lives with a disability and/or a mental health condition. We all want to be accepted, respected, and regarded as full participants in all the things our community provides whether we have a disability or not. The mission of JDAIM is to unite Jewish communities worldwide to raise awareness and champion the rights of all Jews to be accepted and included in all aspects of Jewish and community life. JDAIM is a call to action for all of us to act in accordance with Jewish values, honoring the gifts and strengths that we all possess and the contribution that we make. When inclusion is embraced, it can lead to the ultimate goal of belonging.
One of the most impactful ways of creating a more inclusive community is through continuous education and training for all members. Jewish Abilities Atlanta (JAA) provides just this: training in disability awareness and inclusion, educational support and resources, and assistance in developing strategies to support people with disabilities to ensure that they are included, welcomed and belong. These trainings are available to all Atlanta Jewish organizations at no cost. Learn about how JAA can support you on you journey to inclusion
This year, our community will offer dynamic programs that emphasize removing barriers for people with disabilities, raising awareness and celebrating the diversity of our community. Follow JAA on Facebook & Instagram to learn more about community events. Please tell us about your organization’s JDAIM programing!
We will continue to provide a platform for deepening inclusion in all aspects of Jewish life not just in February, but all throughout the year. A few ways that this work is done is:
- Inclusion Microgrants and larger-scale grants (launching February 1st!), which deepen investment in community inclusion efforts
- The Ina Enoch Training Fund which provides support for community professionals and lay leaders wishing to attend learning opportunities that support the inclusion of individuals with disabilities and their families. Apply HERE
