People with Intellectual Disabilities can continue to experience bullying simply for being who they are. It can happen through peers, the public, the media, popular culture, and even by support people. As a direct support professional, I am aware that a large part of my job is to promote confidence in people and inspire a feeling of belonging for everyone. So I keep encouraging the dancers to dance. I believe that, if you join in the dance, others will also join. At least in that space, in that moment, it is a safe place to express your true self with no bullying!

The International Journal for Direct Support Professionals contains easy to-read, practical articles for Direct Support Professionals on a variety of topics that are pertinent to their role in supporting people with intellectual disabilities.