HONOLULU — A partnership between the Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities, an advocacy group for individuals with developmental disabilities, and the Alzheimer’s Association brings the Annual Hawaii Advocacy Day to the Hawaii State Capitol from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 7.

What You Need To Know

  • The event is as an opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities, Alzheimer’s and experiencing dementia-related conditions to engage personally in the legislative process

  • The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act defines a developmental disability as a “severe chronic, mental or physical impairment that restricts the ability to function and requires support services”

  • Approximately 23,000 people in Hawaii have a developmental disability

With the theme of “A World of Possibilities,” the event is about fostering inclusivity, empowering voices and promoting awareness about the rights and needs of those with developmental disabilities, as well as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia-related conditions.

The event is as an opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities, Alzheimer’s and experiencing dementia-related conditions to engage personally in the legislative process. Those attending will participate in meetings with lawmakers, observe legislative sessions and contribute to discussions on policies that impact their lives, according to a news release.

“The theme ‘A World of Possibilities’ encapsulates the vision of creating a future where individuals of all abilities have limitless opportunities and the potential to shape their destinies,” said Daintry Bartoldus, executive administrator of the State Council of Developmental Disabilities, in the release.

“We envision a world where individuals with developmental disabilities are not limited by societal barriers, but instead are empowered to explore a multitude of possibilities. The annual Day at the Capitol is a celebration of that vision and an invitation to create a more inclusive and accessible world,” said Bartoldus.

Nearly 23,000 people in Hawaii have a developmental disability, according to the release.

The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act defines a developmental disability as a “severe chronic, mental or physical impairment that restricts the ability to function and requires support services.” Examples of these include Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and autism.

“We must amplify our efforts to raise awareness about Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, as they affect nearly 100,000 individuals in our state, and improve the quality and access to care for our residents,” said LJ Duenas, executive director of the Alzheimer's Association.

“To do so, it is crucial to develop supportive policies for those living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. This can be achieved by actively participating in the lawmaking process and mobilizing advocates to speak up and make a difference. Events like Hawaii Advocacy Day at the Capitol play a vital role in these initiatives, and we are thankful to partner with the council on this important day of advocacy, belonging, and community engagement,” said Duenas.

Additional information is available by calling the Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities at 808-586-8100 or via email at hiscdd@doh.hawaii.gov.

Sarah Yamanaka covers news and events for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.