Every year, advocates from across Maryland eagerly anticipate Developmental Disabilities Day at the Legislature (DD Day), the state’s largest advocacy event dedicated to advancing the rights and opportunities of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) joined self-advocates, families, and service providers on Thursday at The Graduate Annapolis to ensure that the perspectives of people with IDD are heard and represented at the highest levels of government.
What is Developmental Disabilities Day?
DD Day is an annual event that brings together hundreds of advocates, service providers, legislators, and state officials to discuss policies and initiatives that impact the lives of people with IDD and their families every day. Hosted by the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, DD Day is an opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers, learn about key legislative issues, and build momentum for policies that promote inclusion, accessibility, and opportunity. Thursday’s event focused on proposed legislative changes and budget cuts, addressing the critical challenges faced by the IDD community.
Despite fog and snow, more than 1,000 people gathered in Annapolis to advocate against steep budget cuts. This year’s event carried a particular sense of urgency as attendees voiced concerns over the impact the proposed budget cuts will have on services, inclusion, and opportunities for people with IDD.
Rachel London, Executive Director of the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, welcomed everyone and acknowledged the concerns on everyone’s minds, stating, “I want to start by acknowledging the fear and frustration we are all feeling.” However, she offered a note of hope, sharing the effect of the emergency rally on Feb 3, 2025. “We’ve gotten the governor’s attention. I am happy to report that members of the DD Coalition have met with high-level members of the governor’s team, and they very much want to work with us to try and find a path forward.”
The program featured remarks from numerous legislative leaders, including Delegate Aaron Kaufman, the first person elected to the Maryland General Assembly with a developmental disability, who highlighted the growing representation of people with disabilities in leadership roles. Speakers underscored their commitment to protecting funding and advancing policies that support the IDD community. Senator Guy Guzzone affirmed, “We have worked too hard to lift up this community for the last decade or more—I do not want to go back.” Senator Craig Zucker added, “There’s a lot of chaos on Capitol Hill, but in Maryland, it is crystal clear. We’ve got great leadership, and we’re going to do everything we can to make sure we put you first.”
Following the speakers, a review of the proposed cuts was given, along with the impact the cuts would have on Marylanders both with and without IDD. Advocates then walked to the State House to meet face-to-face with legislators and their staff, ensuring their voices were heard and the needs of people with IDD were prioritized through legislation that promotes inclusion and equity.
Why Advocacy Events Matter
The Maryland General Assembly plays a crucial role in shaping policies that affect Marylanders with IDD. Advocacy events – like DD Day – play a critical role in connecting advocates and lawmakers, providing a platform for people to share their lived experiences directly with decision-makers. With the entire state facing significant budget cuts, the advocacy taking place at events like DD Day is more important than ever.
“Grassroots advocacy works—this year’s Developmental Disabilities Day proved that,” said Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations for The Arc. “When people with disabilities, families, and advocates come together to share their stories, it creates momentum and drives real change.”
Through advocacy, The Arc strengthens its partnerships with legislators and community leaders, reinforcing the collective effort to achieve greater inclusion and equity. Advocacy doesn’t stop after one day—it is an ongoing commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities have access to affordable housing, employment opportunities, quality education, healthcare, and the resources they need to live the life they choose for themselves.
Join the Movement
DD Day is more than just an event—it’s a call to action. Whether attending in person, tuning in to the live stream, or engaging with legislators throughout the year, every advocate plays a crucial role in shaping the future of disability rights in Maryland.
The Arc encourages all supporters to get involved, stay informed, and continue advocating for policies that empower people with disabilities. To stay on top of legislative events like this, please join The Arc’s Newsletter and follow us on social media.