April 8, 2013: People Inc.’s Museum of disABILITY History is pleased to unveil its newest exhibit called, “Little Differences: The Portrayal of Children with disABILITIES Throughout History.” An opening reception will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2013, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street in Buffalo.

The “Little Differences” exhibit includes a six panel banner stand showing how children with disabilities have been depicted from the biblical era to modern times in art, literature, heroic characters, telethons and media campaigns. A selection of artifacts from the Museum’s collection will be on display to complement the banner stands, including a selection of classic fundraising posters and photographs.

Children with disabilities have often been used as “poster children” to raise funds and awareness. To help make a connection, organizations put a face on disability – the face was often a young one intended to rouse the audience to action. The images have helped shape perceptions. The keynote speaker for the event is Michael A. Rembis, Ph.D., director of the Center for Disability Studies at the University at Buffalo and assistant professor in the Department of History. Along with Douglas Platt, curator for the Museum of disABILITY History, Dr. Rembis assisted with the development of the exhibit.

The exhibit is supported by the New York Council for the Humanities and Erie County. The exhibit will be open to the public to view until the end of August. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 716-629-3626. Walk-ins and group tours welcome.

The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs, and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness.

People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 10,000 people with special needs, their families, and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.