October 22

​International Stuttering Awareness Day

Join us in supporting International Stuttering Awareness Day - it's time to recognize the strength and courage of those who stutter!

Yearly Date
October 22
Type
Day
Category
Health

Introduction

Let's come together and celebrate International Stuttering Awareness Day on Oct. 22! This day was created to bring attention to the speech disorder of stuttering and to raise awareness about the struggles that people with this condition face every day. It is also a great opportunity for those who stutter to be empowered by their stories, share their experiences, and find strength in each other. So let's join forces and show our support for those who stutter by spreading the word about this important day!

​International Stuttering Awareness Day Timeline

1907
Birth of Stuttering Research
Lee Edwards Travis, often called 'the father of speech pathology', was born. He later conducted significant research on stuttering.
1947
Stuttering Foundation Established
The Stuttering Foundation was created, an organization dedicated to providing resources and support for individuals who stutter.
1989
First International Stuttering Congress
The first International Stuttering Congress was held in Japan, becoming a major international platform for professionals and people who stutter.
1998
Launch of International Stuttering Awareness Day
International Stuttering Awareness Day was first observed on October 22, 1998, to raise awareness of stuttering worldwide.
2010
Online Conferences Begin
Beginning in 2010, online conferences have been held annually to coincide with International Stuttering Awareness Day, connecting those who stutter worldwide.
2021
Increase in Global Recognition
In recent years, the recognition of stuttering and support for those who stutter has increased globally, thanks in part to annual observance of International Stuttering Awareness Day.

How to Celebrate ​International Stuttering Awareness Day

1

Organize a Fundraiser

Organize a fundraiser for stuttering awareness and research. Ask your local businesses to donate items for raffles or auctions, or start a crowd funding campaign. There are plenty of ways to raise money and help those affected by stuttering.

2

Share Your Story

Share your story on social media, or in person with family and friends. Talk about how stuttering has affected your life, and how you have overcome it or worked to manage it. This can be a great way to build empathy and understanding.

3

Attend a Support Group

Attend a support group for people affected by stuttering. You can find online forums and discussion groups, as well as in person meetings, where you can share your experiences, ask questions, and get support from others.

4

Educate Others

Take the opportunity to educate others about the realities of living with stuttering. Talk about how it affects your daily life and the struggles you face, as well as ways that people can be more understanding and supportive.

5

Wear Blue

Take part in International Stuttering Awareness Day by wearing blue on October 22nd. This is a great way to show your support for those affected by stuttering and start conversations about this topic.

Why ​International Stuttering Awareness Day is Important

A

It helps raise awareness about stuttering

International Stuttering Awareness Day is an important day that helps spread understanding and acceptance of people who stutter. By raising awareness and educating the general public about stuttering, this day can help reduce feelings of stigma and isolation that come with being a person who stutters.

B

It encourages communication & understanding

International Stuttering Awareness Day is also important because it encourages open conversations between people who do and don't stutter. It gives us the opportunity to learn more about the experiences of those living with this condition, while fostering empathy, understanding, and acceptance on both sides.

C

It promotes support for people who stutter

On International Stuttering Awareness Day, we have the chance to celebrate the progress of efforts to increase access to treatment, as well as provide direct financial assistance for those living with a stutter. This day also acknowledges the courage of individuals living with this disability, providing some much needed encouragement and support.

​International Stuttering Awareness Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Oct 21
Saturday
2024
Oct 21
Monday
2025
Oct 21
Tuesday
2026
Oct 21
Wednesday
2027
Oct 21
Thursday