Each March, Disability Awareness Month is celebrated throughout Indiana. And given that adults and children with disabilities represent slightly more than 19 percent of Indiana’s population, disability awareness is important for every Hoosier.

Led by the Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities (GCPD), the goal of Disability Awareness Month is to increase awareness and promote independence, integration and inclusion of all people with disabilities. The Council develops a unique theme for this annual event and produces campaign materials that are available free of charge to Hoosiers who want to help make a difference.

The 2010 campaign theme is “Free Your Mind.” This year’s artwork, shown throughout this site, features people of different ages and ethnicities – with and without disabilities – lying on the grass and gazing up at the sky with optimism and enthusiasm. The text reminds us that by embracing people’s differences, we open ourselves to a world of new possibilities. When we free our minds and see the potential inside everyone, we’ll expand our horizons – and our circle of friends. This year’s campaign materials are sponsored by Duke Energy.

This is the 20th year for Disability Awareness Month. Join thousands of advocates and people with disabilities across the state by conducting community-based activities. The GCPD's website offers materials and suggestions for activities and ways to get involved during this historic time.

In celebration of Disabilities Awareness Month, on March 1, a unique art show will continue its year-long tour throughout the state of Indiana at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis as a special recognition of Disabilities Awareness Month. Sponsored by Indiana Professional Management Group, “What’s important to me! An exhibit of art by Hoosiers with developmental disabilities” reflects the needs, hopes, and goals of Indiana residents with developmental disabilities through artistic creations.

Artwork by nearly 100 individuals from around the state will be on display, including representatives from 37 cities and towns around the state, including Bloomington, Indianapolis, Muncie, Lafayette, Fort Wayne, Crown Point, Terre Haute, and Evansville. “What’s important to me!” will be displayed on the second floor of the Statehouse until March 31.

For more information on IPMG's art exhibit "What's important to me!" click here.