University News
Disability Awareness Week
October 4, 2006
MACOMB, IL – As part of the annual Fall Disability Awareness Week at Western Illinois University Monday, Oct. 16 through Friday, Oct. 20, the 22nd Annual Disability Awareness Day, sponsored by PRIDE (Promoting the Rights of Individuals with Disabilities Everywhere) and Disability Support Services (DSS), will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19 in the University Union Grand Ballroom.
Simulation modules will include visual, learning, hearing, auditory processing and orthopedic/physical disability experiences. Participants in Disability Awareness Day can complete all five stations in about an hour, or complete only those simulations they have time for, according to Robin Hyman, DSS assistant director. PRIDE members will be at the event to answer questions.
“The event is held to raise awareness and understanding of how daily living affects students with disabilities, as well as to look at why students with disabilities need specific accommodations to assure equal access to higher education,” Hyman said. “If people understand, then perhaps their understanding will translate into action and they will do more to promote the rights of individuals with disabilities.”
For more information about Disability Awareness Day activities, contact PRIDE at 309/298-2512 or e-mail pride@wiu.edu.
“The attendance and involvement of both the campus and local communities is so important. Either volunteering, participating in a simulation or attending one of our many events during the week demonstrates a commitment to Western’s mission and values of public service, diversity and personal responsibility,” Hyman added.
Other activities during the week include:
Monday, Oct. 16, 1-4 p.m.: PRIDE membership drive BBQ, east end of Seal Hall; 7-9 p.m. “Murderball,” a sports documentary about Team USA’s Wheelchair Rugby Team, University Union Sandburg Theatre.
Tuesday, Oct. 17: Panel discussion (time and location TBA).
Wednesday, Oct. 18, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.: Campus Mobility Wheelchair Tour – Access Western’s facilities, walkways and Go West bus routes 1, 2 and 3 by wheelchair (meeting location TBA).
Friday Oct. 20, 6-8 p.m.: Bowling with PRIDE. Free bowling and shoe rental. University Union Bowling and Billiards Center.
Anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about Disability Awareness Week and Disability Support Services at Western should contact Hyman at 309/298-2512.
Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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