Wednesday, October 21, is National Unity Day, a day dedicated to promoting kindness, acceptance, and inclusion and taking a stand against bullying. Across the country, people are encouraged to wear and share orange as a visible symbol of unity and support. Orange was chosen because of its connection to October, as well as its association with safety and visibility.

But at BNI, the message behind Unity Day has an especially meaningful connection to who we are.

Dr. Gertrude Barber believed deeply in creating hope and opportunity for individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behavioral health challenges. Her vision helped establish a culture in which every person deserves to be valued, respected, included, and given the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

Those principles reflect the very heart of Unity Day. Kindness and inclusion are not simply values we recognize on one day each October. They are values we have the opportunity to put into action every day.

So, when you see BNI filled with orange on October 21, remember what it represents: a commitment to kindness, acceptance, inclusion, and a community where everyone belongs.

We hope you’ll join us and wear orange on Wednesday, October 21!