Engaging Diverse Communities in Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities

Many of this nation’s communities have been oppressed, minoritized, and discriminated against. For some within these communities, their history in the US, territories, and tribal nations, is compounded by current day realities perpetuated by inequities. Establishing and sustaining broad-based community partnerships that support the full inclusion of and equity for persons who experience intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families present myriad benefits while simultaneously presenting unique challenges. Many IDD organizations and programs continue to struggle to engage communities in a culturally and linguistically competent manner. This session will present six key strategies and approaches to engage the culturally and linguistically diverse communities of New York State.