OKLAHOMA CAPITOL --- March is celebrated nationally as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Governor Frank Keating has proclaimed March as a month of awareness in Oklahoma as well. It is a time to recognize as active citizens, good workers and good neighbors people across the state who have developmental disabilities.

"Our goal during March is to increase the public’s awareness and understanding of people who have mental retardation and other developmental disabilities," said James M. Nicholson, director of the Developmental Disabilities Services Division, Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

"In this month of awareness we strive to help people recognize that when they see a person with a disability, there is more there than meets the eye," Nicholson said. "They are seeing a person who has abilities and possibilities and wants to work, go to school, have family and be a part of their community, just like everyone else."

There are approximately 50,000 Oklahomans who have developmental disabilities—that means conditions which affect people during their developmental years. Examples of these conditions include mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Down and Tourette syndromes, spina bifida, learning disabilities and traumatic brain injury.

The theme for Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is "Every Face in Our Community Belongs."

People with all types of disabilities will gather at the south steps of the state capitol on March 6, for "People with Disabilities Awareness Day." The focus this year is to increase awareness about the tremendous need for better public transportation around the state.

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