October 6 is World Cerebral Palsy Day, a global celebration of individuality, a platform for raising awareness, and an advocacy movement. What began as a day to raise awareness of this most common of lifelong physical disabilities has turned into a worldwide movement. People with cerebral palsy and their friends and families use the day to advocate for real change: policy changes, research investments, and lifelong care. How are you celebrating World CP Day this year?
About World Cerebral Palsy Day
The first World CP Day occurred in 2012 and was founded by United Cerebral Palsy in the U.S. and the Cerebral Palsy Alliance in Australia. The two groups brought together individuals and organizations around the world as part of the ‘Change my World’ campaign. From there, the movement grew every year with more involvement and thousands of related events.
By 2024, World Cerebral Palsy Day involved nearly 25 million people, including individuals with CP sharing their personal stories.
One important movement that has come out of World CP Day is CP360. CP360 was born from a desire to transition from awareness to action. It is a global movement for accelerating change for the millions of people living with CP. It pushes for more current global data on CP, earlier screenings and interventions, evidence-based services, and equitable access to care and services, especially for those living in underserved areas.
Getting Involved This October
Whether you have cerebral palsy or care about someone living with this condition, you can get involved in World CP Day 2025. The theme this year is Unique and United, celebrating what makes every member of this community special.
One of the easiest things you can do to be a part of this day of celebration and awareness is to share your story. Use the hashtags #WorldCPDay and #UniqueAndUnited to share your experiences on social media. Go to the official website for World Cerebral Palsy Day to officially share your story and help raise awareness.
At the official website, you can also download several resource guides for more information about how to get involved and make a difference. The social guide provides graphics you can use on social media. The educational guide will help you share accurate information about CP and individuals with CP.
If you’re more action-oriented, use the advocacy guide for steps you can take to raise awareness and push for meaningful change. Ideas include having conversations with people about CP, contacting your local leaders and politicians to discuss the issues, and connecting with other advocates and local advocacy groups.
Look for local events you can attend for World CP Day. Your closest United Cerebral Palsy Chapter will have more information. If you can’t find any events, consider hosting your own event. Try a fun run or picnic to get people together to share stories and brainstorm advocacy ideas.
World Cerebral Palsy Day comes only once a year, so don’t miss it! This year’s theme is all about coming together to celebrate individuality while also campaigning for real change. Let us know how you’re getting involved this year.
