The “End the Awkward” project is a one-day event on July 15 in the District of Columbia that empowers you to share information about people with disabilities, and to take a pledge to raise awareness and better understand disability issues. By registering for the project, you commit to wearing an "End the Awkward" pin (right) on July 15 and to learn a few short talking points we provide about respectful ways to interact with people with disabilities. When people see your pin and ask how to "end the awkward," you can simply recite one of the talking points. It's that easy, and together we can reach thousands of people! Businesses across the District will have their employees join in as well!

Participants who register (free) before July 8 will be sent an “End the Awkward” participant package, which includes the "End the Awkward" pin, talking points and additional information about the day. Although we encourage people to participate across the nation, participant packages can only be sent to addresses in the District of Columbia, Maryland or Virginia.

Participants are also encouraged to use their social media to promote the event on July 15 using the hashtag #EndTheAwkwardDC.

Our DC effort is inspired by Scope’s “End the Awkward” campaign in the UK, which features great videos and other materials on how to “end the awkward,” and has gained attention worldwide!

The “End the Awkward" project is a collaboration between the District of Columbia government, disability advocacy organizations, businesses and allies with the desire to share information about people with disabilities to increase awareness and understanding. The event is part of a larger effort to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act this July.

Participating District Agencies and Organizations

District of Columbia Office of Human Rights
Age-Friendly DC
American Association of People with Disabilities
DC Advocacy Partners
DC Center for Independent Living
DC Developmental Disabilities Council
DC Department of Small and Local Business Development
DC Department on Disability Services
DC Office of Disability Rights
DC Office on Aging
Equal Rights Center
Institute for Educational Leadership
Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington
Steven Winter Associates, Inc.
Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities
United Cerebral Palsy
United Spinal Association