Did you know that nearly 20% of the population lives with a disability and/or a mental health condition? February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM), and all month, Federation and RespectAbility will be amplifying the voices and experiences of people with disabilities.
The purpose of JDAIM is for Jewish communities across the world to raise awareness and champion the rights of all Jews to be accepted and included in all aspects of Jewish life. It is the perfect time of year to read and watch stories by Jewish artists with disabilities, and learn what civil right struggles are still happening today in the disability community.
Assumptions can be made that disabled people look a particular way, but it’s important not to jump to conclusions about a person’s disability status based on how they look. Disabilities can be apparent and non-apparent, and by making our communities more accessible and inclusive, everyone can belong.
Belonging is an essential human need, and everyone deserves to have their personal Jewish journey affirmed. It is vital that people with disabilities can access and thrive in Jewish spaces. JDAIM is an important time, but the need for accessibility and inclusion lasts the whole year round.
To learn how Federation supports people with disabilities all year long, please visit the Jewish Abilities Atlanta website.
