A record number of anti-LGBTQIA+ bills have been introduced in states across the country this year, so its doubly good to see New York add to its arsenal of anti-discrimination resources.
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities has announced two new free, virtual trainings to help equip providers of services for people with developmental disabilities to support people who want to understand and express their gender identity and sexual orientation.
The OPWDD writes that it has heard from stakeholders about multiple barriers for people with developmental disabilities who identify as LGBTQIA+, such as difficulties in connecting with other LGBTQIA+ people in the community, a lack of appropriate and safe venues to discuss being (and supporting others who are) LGBTQIA+ with a disability, and experiencing increased feelings of social isolation due to stigma and a lack of social opportunities.
The trainings are:
Proud and Supported
The Developmental Disabilities Planning Council (DDPC) has partnered with the National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) for a training that helps providers understand how to support people with developmental disabilities who also identify as LGBTQIA+. Specifically, the training aims to:
- Build the capacity of and connection between current and future disability LGBTQIA+ advocacy and support groups.
- Educate and train support staff, people with disabilities, and families about sexuality and being LGBTQIA+ with a disability.
- Support inclusive community and social opportunities for people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQIA+.
(If you’re a provider and interested in signing up, check out this link.)
LGBTQIA+ Training Curriculum
Detailed instruction on implementing new guidance called the Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Memorandum, which describes the rights of people with developmental disabilities related to their gender identity and sexual orientation, is being offered via a new curriculum.
(If you’re a provider and interested in signing up, check out this link.)
Photo: Polina Tankilevitch via Pexels
