The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
Breaking Barriers 2025
What is Breaking Barriers Day?
Breaking Barriers Day is an annual celebration honoring the contributions of Michigan's disability community. The name is a reflection of the progress we have made, and a recognition of the work we must do, to create communities where people with disabilities can live, work, and thrive without barriers.
At its core, Breaking Barriers is about bringing people together in a sensory-friendly environment where everyone is welcome. Through connection, creativity, and community, we aim to inspire all citizens to recognize barriers and celebrate what becomes possible when we work together to remove them.
Join us on Tuesday, July 29 as we celebrate community inclusion and the contributions of people with disabilities.
Registration is Open!
Join us on July 29 as we celebrate Breaking Barriers Day in the Capitol City.
Connect with us on the Capitol Lawn 2:00-4:00pm:
Breaking Barriers Day kicks off with a gathering on the Capitol Lawn [100 N Capitol Ave, Lansing, MI 48933]. Join advocates, community leaders, and allies to bring attention to issues that impact people with disabilities. Hear from passionate speakers and learn more about disability services and supports offered by organizations in attendance. This is an opportunity for Michigan's disability community to come together at the center of our state's government and show that every voice matters.
Explore the creativity of the Breaking Barriers Art Exhibit at the Lansing Shuffle from 4:30-6:30 pm
From the Capitol, head to the Lansing Shuffle [325 Riverfront Dr, Lansing, MI 48912] for the Breaking Barriers Art Exhibit. The exhibit highlights the talent and creativity of artists with developmental disabilities. Art will be on display in a space where people of all abilities can connect, celebrate, and learn from each other. Artists featured in the exhibit will be invited to attend Breaking Barriers Day to share their stories at the Lansing Shuffle and connect with the public.
Gathering with our community at the Lugnuts Stadium 7:00 pm:
End Breaking Barriers Day at the ballpark as the Lansing Lugnuts host a sensory-friendly night at Jackson Field [505 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912]! This event will ensure fans of all ages and abilities can enjoy America's favorite pastime in a welcoming, accessible environment. We're partnering with Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) and the Lugnuts to provide American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, audio devices for streaming the game broadcast, sensory kits, and a quiet room for those who need a break.
Together, these events make Breaking Barriers Day a true community celebration for all. Breaking Barriers Day is FREE, and everyone is welcome to attend. Please register in advance and specify if you require any accommodations to ensure your full participation.
Questions? Contact Renee Hall at HallR24@michigan.gov.
2025 Breaking Barriers Art Exhibit
The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (MiDDC) and Self-Advocates of Michigan (SAM) present: the 2025 Breaking Barriers Art Exhibit.
The Breaking Barriers Art Exhibit highlights the talent of artists with developmental disabilities while breaking down stigmas that prevent these artists from accessing opportunities in the art world.
The art exhibit is currently open to view in-person at the Lansing Shuffle [325 Riverfront Dr, Lansing, MI 48933]. Explore the art exhibit and gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between disability and art as a powerful form of self-expression and self-advocacy.
Artists from the Breaking Barriers Art Exhibit will be available for a meet-and-greet during Breaking Barriers Day at Lansing Shuffle on Tuesday, July 29 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
An online version of the Breaking Barriers Art Exhibit will be available to view on August 1, 2025.
Breaking Barriers Resource Center
Why Community Inclusion Matters: Understanding the ADA
Each July, we celebrate the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA is an historic civil rights milestone for all people with disabilities. Breaking Barriers is a celebration of the unique experiences, strengths, and achievements of people with disabilities. It is also a time to recognize that people with disabilities often face discrimination or marginalization based on their disability, race, gender, sexual orientation, or other intersecting factors.
Disabilities are a beautiful and natural part of human diversity, and we strive to create an inclusive and accessible society that enables individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling lives and participate in their communities. Activities during Disability Pride Month are aimed at inspiring all citizens to celebrate the contributions of persons with disabilities, promote inclusivity, and foster greater respect and understanding.