NATIONAL DWARFISM AWARENESS MONTH
During October, National Dwarfism Awareness Month raises positive awareness on dwarfism, aims to dispel myths and misconceptions, and offers opportunities for people with dwarfism.
An estimated 30,000 people in the United States are born with some type of dwarfism. Internationally, the number grows to 651,000. From person to person, the type of dwarfism takes on different forms. And while there are over 200 distinct forms of dwarfism and skeletal dysplasia, rarely do the conditions affect cognitive abilities.
“People with dwarfism are no different than any other person. We may just need a well-placed stool. Our members are children, college students, business professionals, doctors, engineers, mechanics, artists and teachers. We can do anything an average-height person can do.”
Lois Lamb, LPA President and a person with dwarfism.
While most people with dwarfism are no taller than 4′ 10″ when they reach adulthood, they typically range in height from 2’8″ to 4’5″. Approximately 80 percent of people with dwarfism have average-height parents and siblings.
HOW TO OBSERVE #DwarfismAwarenessMonth
The observance encourages us to learn more about dwarfism. Support organizations that increase awareness, offer services and support to the those with dwarfism. Encourage your state to declare October as National Dwarfism Awareness Month. As of 2020, the following states have already issued a declaration: Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Puerto Rico.
Other ways to join the observance include:
- Host an event. It can be a fundraiser, educational event or a celebration.
- Write an article or broadcast a story. Whether it’s a news article, podcast, or an interview, sharing positive stories offers the opportunity to dispel misinformation and bring the people to the forefront.
- Read about dwarfism. Learning more about the people who live in a world bigger than them gives us all perspective.
As you participate, be sure to use #DwarfismAwarenessMonth or #NationalDwarfismAwarenessMonth when sharing on social media.
NATIONAL DWARFISM AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY
In 2011, the Little People of America organization declared October as National Dwarfism Awareness Month. Through annual campaigns, the organization promotes positive stories of the dwarfism community. While raising awareness, the campaign encourages others to celebrate those in the community and to share their experiences.