News  Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council and The Arc of Massachusetts Celebrate IDD Awareness Month with 48th Annual Legislative Reception

Boston — In recognition of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Awareness Month, the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) and The Arc of Massachusetts (The Arc) hosted their 48th Annual Legislative Reception on Tuesday, March 10. Hundreds of self-advocates, family members, lawmakers and community partners filled the Great Hall of the Massachusetts State House to celebrate inclusion, accessibility, and the contributions of people with IDD.

IDD Awareness Month, observed annually in March, is an opportunity to celebrate the talents and contributions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, while recognizing what work still needs to be done to ensure they have access to the supports and services that will allow them to live fulfilled lives in their communities. At a time where funding for Medicaid Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) is uncertain, the Legislative Reception provided the community with a chance to foster collaboration and strengthen partnerships with decision-makers.

The event featured two co-emcees; Andre Williams, MDDC Self-Advocacy Liaison and Lauren Beckham Falcone, WROR Radio Host and parent advocate.

Cody Rooney, MDDC Vice-Chairperson delivered the morning’s welcoming address. “As someone who uses PCA services, I am concerned about how proposed Medicaid cuts could impact my independence. Many people here today are in a similar situation, with other essential programs at stake. Keeping programs that enable us to live independent and meaningful lives gives us the quality of life that we enjoy and have a right to,” Rooney said in his remarks.

Governor Maura Healey issued a proclamation designating March as Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Massachusetts. At the event, Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) Undersecretary Dr. Kiame Mahaniah was present to deliver the proclamation.

The event featured two keynote addresses, delivered by mother and son advocates Sandra Heller and Craig Kinney, and Daniel O’Donnell.

In their keynote address, Heller and Kinney discussed the structure of supports that allow for Kinney to live independently and maintain control of his life. In his remarks, Kinney emphasized the importance of self-autonomy in his life. “Even when I couldn’t talk, my family and supporters explained everything to me. They helped me understand what the doctors were saying, but I always got to make the final choice. I want people to know that I am capable. I just need help understanding things. People should help me decide—not decide for me,” he said. “Craig utilizes a Self-Directed Services Delivery Model provided through the Department of Developmental Services,” said Heller. “Self-Direction empowers individuals with disabilities and their families to have greater control over their services and supports. This model allows also participants and their families to create individualized supports based on their vision and needs.”

Two members of the Massachusetts legislature were honored as “Disability Legislative Champions” in recognition of their commitments to Massachusetts residents with IDD. From the House of Representatives, Representative Jay Livingstone was presented with the award with an introduction by House Speaker Ronald Mariano. Livingstone represents the 8th Suffolk district, covering parts of Boston. Livingstone has served as the House Chair of the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities since 2023.

From the Senate, Senator Joan Lovely received the award with an introduction by Senate President Karen Spilka. Lovely represents the 2nd Essex district, covering Beverly, Danvers, Peabody, and Salem. Lovely was previously awarded with this award 10 years ago, showcasing her continued commitment.