Patrick Administration and Advocates Welcome Name Change for Department of Developmental Services

BOSTON — The Patrick Administration today announced that the state agency serving individuals with developmental disabilities has officially been renamed the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Previously known as the Department of Mental Retardation, the agency’s new name reflects the importance of promoting dignity and respect for people with intellectual disabilities. The new name takes effect today.

Enacted through legislation in 2008, the agency’s name change grew from active engagement and input from advocates, particularly self-advocates with intellectual disabilities. The new name also better reflects the broad range of services and supports offered by the agency.

“Today marks a new beginning as we join a broad coalition of people with intellectual disabilities and their families, advocates, and lawmakers in celebrating the Department of Developmental Services’ new name,” said Governor Deval Patrick. “It is an exciting day for all of us who support providing individuals with intellectual disabilities the dignity they and their families deserve.”

“The Patrick Administration understands that names matter. Promoting dignity and respect for people with disabilities requires that we eliminate the use of terms that are no longer acceptable,” said Secretary of Health and Human Services Dr. JudyAnn Bigby. “Today we celebrate the Department of Developmental Services’ new name and honor the hard work of so many who made the change possible.”

“The Department’s new name affords consumers and their families the dignity and respect they have been looking for and certainly deserve,” added the Department’s Commissioner Elin Howe.

John Anton, a self-advocate from Haverhill, said, “The name change means we’ll all be treated equally and have a voice. I feel good, because I helped push the legislation for it at the State House. We’re equal like everyone else. The new name shows more respect and dignity.”

Craig Smith, a self-advocate from Brighton, said, “The name is like freedom now. It means getting more respect.”

Self-advocate Charles Pina of Haverhill said, “The new name, Department of Developmental Services, is very respectful. It’s important for us that we are seen as working individuals and are all human beings.”

Sandy Houghton, a self-advocate from Hadley added, “Now with the new name, people will all have the opportunity to be accepted for who they are and for all their abilities and what they want to do.”

About the Department of Developmental Services

The Department is dedicated to creating, in partnership with others, innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate fully and meaningfully in, and contribute to, their communities as valued members.

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