A 200-year struggle forged a more inclusive society for children with disabilities, paving the way for organizations like United Services for Children. This parent-led revolution changed the nation, but is now nearly forgotten.
United Services is proud to launch “Missouri’s Journey of Inclusion: Then and Now,” an interactive digital exhibit chronicling the fight to secure the rights and developmental opportunities we take for granted.
Designed with educators in mind, the website traces social change from the 1820s through the 2020s, from the social isolation of children with disabilities to today’s exploding neurodiversity movement. The site includes extensive oral histories and downloadable educational materials, all free and publicly accessible. The site is organized into five historical eras, offering a framework to explore how parent-led advocacy slowly transformed societal attitudes, public policy and educational practices.
United Services on Jan. 29 invited a group of parents and agency supports to see a sneak preview of the website and its accompanying exhibit.
The website is a companion resource to a new “Journey of Inclusion” wall installation at United Services. The physical exhibit traces the struggles and breakthroughs of Missouri children with disabilities over the last two centuries, honoring the people who refused to stop pushing for something better.
A collaborative effort brought this project to life. We extend our deepest thanks to humanities consultant James Hutson, and the generous support of the Missouri Humanities Council and St. Charles-Sunrise Rotary Club. Special thanks to the artistry and expertise of Jeanne Strickland, Boom Impact Graphics, 1905 New Media, and Master Signs for graphics and website design, and exhibit fabrication and installation. And thank you to the United Services staff that provided the website’s audio narration.
Please set aside some time to explore the “Journey of Inclusion” website. Listen to the audio, download the resources and discover stories that will move you.
