PORT ANGELES — Clallam County is encouraging its citizens to live “side by side” with those with developmental disabilities.
Clallam County commissioners have proclaimed March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.
The theme for the 30th anniversary of the national awareness month is “Life Side by Side,” Clallam County Health and Human Services Planner Timothy Bruce said.
“Today we see people with developmental disabilities as productive, valuable citizens who are involved in all aspects of the community,” Bruce said after receiving a proclamation from commissioners March 7.
“They are our neighbors. They are our family members. We know that they deserve respect, as we all do.”
The proclamation encourages citizens to “promote both the expectations and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities in Clallam County to participate fully in our community through access to inclusive employment, housing, education and civic engagement.”
“We also call upon all citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses and schools in Clallam County to recognize the ability of individuals with developmental disabilities to make significant contributions to their communities and to take time to become acquainted with citizens with developmental disabilities and what they have to offer,” the proclamation reads.
Commissioner Mark Ozias said he worked with individuals with developmental disabilities in his past job as director of the Sequim Food Bank.
“In conversations that I had with them over the years, it was very striking to hear how frequently they are viewed by others as different, and it’s a tragedy,” Ozias told Bruce and other advocates.
“And I really appreciate the work that all of you are doing to help change that dynamic and that perception.”
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Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 56450, or at rollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.
