Montreal landmarks light up, raising awareness for Developmental Language Disorder
Posted October 20, 2023 11:01 am.
Last Updated October 21, 2023 2:21 pm.
Purple and yellow lights illuminated Montreal’s Olympic Stadium and La Grande Roue de Montréal on Friday evening to help raise awareness for Developmental Language Disorder (DLD).
October 20th marked its seventh annual international awareness day.
This year’s theme is “DLD Around the World,” highlighting that the disability occurs in every language.
“DLD is ‘developmental’ which means it starts in childhood, but it doesn’t go away,” said Karina Ismail, Advocate for Equity and Accessible Education for all, RADLD Ambassador. “It is neurodevelopmental.”
The hidden disability causes difficulties to understand and use language for no known reason. Affecting 1 in 14 people.
“Imagine not understanding what is being said around you, by your friends, colleagues, loved ones,” explained Ismail. “Or not catching what looks like such a funny joke! Missing out on the subtle cues to a movie!”
DLD is diagnosed when children fail to acquire their own language for no apparent reason. It is a type of neurodiversity like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia.
“(DLD) impacts the daily lives and activities of many beautiful souls and families.”
The condition was previously known as Specific Language Impairment. DLD is a relatively new term, first introduced in 2017.
More than 40 countries are involved in DLD awareness day. Last year, over 80 landmarks from around the globe lit up in purple and yellow, which represent the cause.
“As a collective, may we come together to ensure the recognition of DLD,” added Ismail. “As well as create better possibilities for our citizens with DLD, who also hold their own dreams and aspirations.”
Montrealers were encouraged to come together on Oct. 20th for the 3rd edition of the Montreal Light Up for #DLDday at La Grande Roue de Montréal in the Old Port. An event to shed further light on the cause.
“I will continue organizing this Light Up not only as long as it is needed to help raise awareness to DLD,” explained Ismail. “But also to help celebrate all the courageous individuals and families affected by DLD.”
More information on Developmental Language Disorder can be found on the raising awareness for DLD website.
