This Month in Disability Rights History: September 2025

This month we have the birthdays of two important advocates, the premiere of the first television character with Down syndrome, and we honor the passing of a figure so important, he has a humanitarian award named after him!

Birth of Roland Johnson: born September 14th, 1945

A self-advocate and early leader in the disability rights movement, Roland Johnson helped found Self Advocates Becoming Empowered (S.A.B.E.) after spending 13 years at Pennhurst State School and Hospital. His activism highlighted the power and dignity of people with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities.

Birth of Alice Wong: born September 14th, 1963

Alice Wong has become a transformative force in modern disability advocacy. Through the Disability Visibility Project, Wong has worked to ensure that disabled people’s stories are heard, valued, and preserved, amplifying intersectional experiences often ignored in mainstream conversations. Her activism continues to shape the broader landscape of media, literature, and public policy, centering disabled narratives.

First TV Show with Recurring Character With Down Syndrome, “Life Goes On”, Premieres: September 12th, 1989

“Life Goes On” was the first television show to feature a recurring character with Downs syndrome. The actor Chris Burke was born with down syndrome, and his character Corky Thatcher appeared in all 83 episodes of the 4-season run of the show. Since the show finished, Chris has acted as the Goodwill ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society, and toured with his three-piece musical group for 20 years.

Passing of Gunnar Dybwad: died September 13th, 2001

An influential civil rights advocate, Gunnar Dybwad reframed disability policy through a social rights lens. The AAIDD’s annual Dybwad Humanitarian Award honors his legacy in promoting dignity and inclusion for people with Intellectual and developmental disabilities.