Disability Inclusion Matters in the Marching Arts
At MAASIN, recognizing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is essential to our mission. The marching arts community is filled with performers, educators, and staff who navigate both visible and invisible disabilities that often go without acknowledgment, resources, or support. By uplifting this day, we reaffirm our commitment to building a culture where access, inclusion, and dignity are not afterthoughts, but foundational values.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), celebrated each year on December 3rd, honors individuals with both visible and invisible disabilities and highlights the ongoing importance of inclusion. Established by the United Nations in 1992, this day focuses on promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of people with disabilities across all areas of society (World Health Organization, 2025).
Despite progress, continued advocacy is still needed. Many individuals with disabilities
experience discrimination in education, employment, and community participation. Stigma surrounding both visible and invisible disabilities can diminish a person’s sense of dignity, autonomy, and agency.
The 2025 IDPD theme, “Foster disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” emphasizes the essential role of inclusion (United Nations, 2025). Creating an inclusive world requires environments that enable participation and social spaces that truly integrate everyone. What does this look like in everyday life? It means noticing and appreciating each person’s strengths, offering support when needed, and advocating for those who face barriers. Through these small but meaningful actions, we contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.
In the marching arts, disability inclusion is just as important as it is in any other community setting. Marching arts members bring a wide range of visible and invisible disabilities, and the physical, fast-paced nature of rehearsals can add extra challenges. Loud environments, long hours, quick transitions, and crowded warm-up areas can be difficult for members with sensory needs, anxiety, chronic pain, or mobility differences/limitations. Many educators and technicians simply haven’t had training or support in recognizing these needs or knowing how to adjust for them, which is understandable given the demands of the activity.
Inclusion and accommodations help everyone by allowing members to start at different skill levels but still work toward the same goal, ensuring each person can contribute and succeed. Simple thoughtful adjustments like clear instructions, predictable routines, modified drill or equipment responsibilities, and offering short breaks when needed can make a huge difference. These supports don’t lessen the quality of a performance; instead, they help members participate more confidently and safely. When programs take the time to understand how each member functions day-to-day and appreciate their strengths, the entire ensemble benefits. Inclusion builds a healthier culture where everyone feels like they belong on the field, on the
floor, and in the community.
Meghan Connelly
MAASIN Member
Meghan Connelly (she/her) is a registered occupational therapist based in Central Texas, specializing in pediatric practice and the integration of occupational health principles into the marching arts. Connelly has been involved in the activity as an observer and volunteer since 2013. She holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree, and her accomplishments include representing her graduate program at statewide and national levels and presenting at a conference for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities. Meghan has been a MAASIN member since 2025 and currently serves within the Women’s Caucus and the Research Committee.