The Allen County Board of Commissioners and Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry today signed a proclamation making March “Disability Awareness Month” in the city and county.

The proclamation states, “Disability is a natural part of the human experience and does not diminish the right of individuals to live independently, make choices, enjoy self-determination, contribute to society, and experience the economic, political, social, cultural, and educational mainstream of American society.”

It also states that “the most effective way to increase disability awareness is through active participation of everyone in community activities and the openness of all of us to learn and acknowledge each individual’s contribution.”

During today’s ceremony, the mayor and commissioners lauded the work of the Fort Wayne-Allen County Disability Advisory Council for providing assistance to city and county government officials and departments with the implementation of policies, procedures and programs on inclusivity which contribute to the quality of life for those with disabilities.