Among Friends

Stories have the power to build understanding.

Movies, television, and other forms of media allow us to experience the world through someone else's perspective. Yet people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are still too often portrayed as side characters—or their stories are told through the lens of someone without lived experience.

That's why authentic representation matters. When people with ID/DD have the opportunity to tell their own stories, audiences gain a deeper understanding of disability, identity, relationships, and everyday life.

We've put together a small list of recently released films that feature authentic disability representation and/or center the experiences of people with ID/DD. We'd love to keep the conversation going!

What movies, shows, or documentaries featuring genuine ID/DD representation have you enjoyed recently? Share your recommendations in the comments! 🎬💟

If you haven't heard it from us before, we'll say it again:
Sexuality is a human right.

Every person—regardless of disability, support needs, or body—deserves the opportunity to explore their sexuality in ways that are safe, consensual, affirming, and accessible.

Adaptive products, inclusive design, and the advocates pushing for change are helping break down barriers that have existed for far too long. They remind us that accessibility doesn't stop at ramps and doorways—it also includes relationships, intimacy, pleasure, and the freedom to make choices about our own bodies.

There is still work to do, but every conversation, every innovation, and every advocate moves us closer to a world where everyone has the opportunity to experience this fundamental part of being human.

Keep speaking up. Keep advocating. The changes are coming. 💟

Communication is the foundation of healthy relationships.
For many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, communication happens through AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), sign language, communication boards, picture cards, and other tools; not just speech.

Every person deserves the opportunity to express their wants, needs, boundaries, feelings, and consent in the way that works best for them. When we support all forms of communication, we support healthy relationships, self-advocacy, autonomy, and sexual health.

Every voice deserves to be heard, no matter how it's expressed. 💟

Education is a key part of self-advocacy. At Among Friends, we support individuals as they explore and express their identities, relationships, gender, and sexuality in ways that are meaningful to them.

Our approach balances an understanding of cognitive and neuro diversity with person-centered support, recognizing that every individual's journey is unique.
Because feeling accepted, respected, and a true sense of belonging can make all the difference. 💛

It was at this moment where I felt slight regret that I actively taught my kids body autonomy and proper body part names. Anyone else?

Thirty-six years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law, expanding civil rights protections and improving access for millions of people with disabilities across the United States.

Since then, the ADA has continued to evolve through updated guidance and standards that have strengthened accessibility in public spaces, increased expectations for digital accessibility, and reinforced the right to equal access in everyday life.

For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD), these protections have helped shape conversations around accessible communication, inclusive education, community participation, the transition to adulthood, health care access, employment, and self-advocacy. While barriers still exist, the ADA has laid the foundation for meaningful progress.

At Among Friends, we know there's always more work to do. But having laws that protect the rights, dignity, and inclusion of the people we serve is something worth celebrating!

Fragile X syndrome is the most common known inherited cause of intellectual disability. While the effects of the genetic mutation vary from person to person, one thing remains the same:
Human rights include sexual rights.
Every person deserves the opportunity to express themselves, build healthy relationships, develop lifelong skills, and experience meaningful human connection. At Among Friends, we advocate for, and help protect, these rights for everyone. 💛

✨ Happy International Drag Day! ✨
International Drag Day celebrates the artistry, creativity, and self-expression that drag brings to communities around the world.
At Among Friends, we believe self-expression is an important part of being human. People with ID/DD deserve the same opportunities to explore their identities, celebrate their creativity, and participate in communities where they feel safe, respected, and valued.
Too often, individuals with disabilities are excluded from conversations about identity, culture, and belonging. Creating truly inclusive communities means recognizing that everyone deserves the freedom to express themselves authentically; whether that's through art, fashion, performance, or simply showing up as their truest self.
Today, we celebrate creativity, diversity, and the power of communities that make room for everyone.
Because inclusion isn't just about access… it's about belonging. 💛

Happy Non-Binary People's Day! 💛
Non-Binary People's Day celebrates people whose identities exist beyond the traditional male/female gender binary while raising awareness of the barriers many non-binary people continue to face.
For people with ID/DD, conversations about gender identity and self-expression are too often overlooked or dismissed. Everyone deserves the opportunity to explore who they are, express themselves authentically, and have that identity respected.
At Among Friends, we believe self-determination includes the freedom to define yourself. Creating inclusive spaces means listening without assumptions, respecting names and pronouns, and recognizing that disability does not diminish a person's right to identity, autonomy, or belonging.
You can help make a difference by sharing your pronouns, honoring the pronouns others share with you, and approaching every person with curiosity and respect rather than assumptions.
Because everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are.

At Among Friends LLC, we’re committed to supporting as many people as possible, without cost being a barrier.
That’s why our website offers hundreds of free resources, available to anyone who needs them.
Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or self-advocate, support is just a click away.
What are you waiting for?