International Stuttering Awareness Day (ISAD) is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about stuttering, a speech fluency disorder characterized by involuntary repetitions, prolongations, or interruptions in speech.
Quick facts
- When is it?: October 22nd
- Tagged as: Speech disorder awareness
- What’s the hashtag?: #ISAD
- When was it founded?: 1998
- Who founded it?: Michael Sugarman
History of International Stuttering Awareness Day
ISAD was established by the International Stuttering Association (ISA) in 1998. The idea originated from Michael Sugarman, co-founder of the National Stuttering Project, who championed the cause for a worldwide day of stuttering awareness in 1997 at the International Fluency Association (IFA) conference.
Timeline
- 1995: ISA creates a wish list for a stuttering awareness day
- 1997: Michael Sugarman proposes the idea at the IFA conference
- 1998: October 22nd is jointly proclaimed as Stuttering Awareness Day by ISA, IFA, and European League of Stuttering Associations
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 22 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 22 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 22 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 22 | Sunday |
| 2029 | October 22 | Monday |
| 2030 | October 22 | Tuesday |
Observed
International Stuttering Awareness Day is observed worldwide through various events, workshops, seminars, and online conferences. Organizations and individuals participate in activities aimed at educating the public about stuttering and promoting understanding and support for those who stutter.
Fun Facts About Stuttering
- Approximately 1% of the world’s population stutters
- Stuttering affects more males than females, with a ratio of about 4:1
- Many famous people have been known to stutter, including Winston Churchill, Marilyn Monroe, and James Earl Jones
Quiz
- What date is International Stuttering Awareness Day?
- Who founded ISAD?
- What percentage of the world’s population stutters?
(Answers: 1. October 22nd, 2. Michael Sugarman, 3. Approximately 1%)
FAQs
Q: Can stuttering be cured?
A: While there is no definitive cure for stuttering, various therapies and techniques can help manage and improve fluency.
Q: Is stuttering caused by nervousness?
A: No, stuttering is a neurological disorder and is not caused by nervousness or anxiety, although these factors may exacerbate it.
Importance of International Stuttering Awareness Day
ISAD plays a crucial role in educating the public about stuttering, reducing stigma, and promoting understanding and support for individuals who stutter. It provides a platform for people who stutter to share their experiences and for professionals to disseminate information about the latest research and treatment options.
Related
- World Speech Day
- Better Hearing and Speech Month
- International Communication Project