Mississippi Department of Mental Health hosts IDD Day at the Capitol
Published 4:00 pm Wednesday, March 25, 2026
The Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) welcomed advocates, service providers, clients and community members to the State Capitol on Tuesday, March 3, for IDD Day at the Capitol. Held from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on the first-floor rotunda, the event brought together supporters from across Mississippi to reaffirm the state’s commitment to expanding access to services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
A highlight of the day came when Governor Tate Reeves signed a proclamation officially recognizing March as IDD Awareness Month in Mississippi, underscoring the state’s dedication to honoring and supporting the more than 41,000 Mississippians living with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The signing served as a powerful reminder that the work of advocates, providers and families is seen and valued at the highest levels of state government. The gathering also gave advocates and providers a direct opportunity to engage with lawmakers and elevate awareness about the critical role behavioral health services play in communities statewide. Events like IDD Day at the Capitol help ensure the needs of individuals with IDD
remain a priority at every level of government.
DMH operates six regional IDD programs across Mississippi, delivering residential and community-based care designed to promote independence and quality of life for the individuals they serve.
“This event highlights the importance of ensuring individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have access to the supports they need to live full and meaningful lives,” said Wendy Bailey, Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health. “Days at the Capitol provide an opportunity to celebrate individuals and families while reinforcing our commitment to strengthening community-based services across Mississippi.”
DMH Chief Clinical Officer Kristin Kirby echoed that sentiment, reflecting on the significance of the day’s turnout and its broader call to action.
“I am grateful to all who joined us for the Day at the Capitol to honor individuals with IDD and celebrate the strengths, talents and contributions of people with IDD,” Kirby said. “It is important to reaffirm that every person deserves the opportunity to live, learn, work and thrive in their community and ensure that people with IDD and their families have access to the supports, services and opportunities they need to live full, self-directed lives.”
The event was held in recognition of IDD Awareness Month, observed each March as a time dedicated to promoting inclusion, raising awareness and celebrating the contributions of individuals with IDD. For more information about IDD services and support available through the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, visit www.dmh.ms.gov .