September 9th, 2022

September 9, 2022 marks Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Day

First celebrated in 1999, FASD day is devoted to raising awareness of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) to improve the prevention of FASD, as well as diagnosis and support for individuals with FASD.

Red Shoes Rock

Red Shoes Rock is a grassroots movement begun by FASD advocate, RJ Formanek, that has gained international recognition. The idea behind Red Shoes Rock is simple: wear red shoes to bring attention to this often under-recognized disability.

The aim of Red Shoes Rock is to:

  • Turn invisibility into visibility
  • Create conversation
  • Change stigma into understanding and acceptance

You can wear your red shoes on FASD Day, throughout FASD month, and at local events. Be part of a global community that is bringing a voice to those impacted by FASD. Share your red shoes on social media using the hashtag #RedShoesRock.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month

Throughout the month of September, the work to raise awareness and understanding of FASD continues. In line with this year’s theme, Building Strengths and Abilities, we are happy to share a recording of a live streamed event from earlier this year.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – A Review (Video)

In May 2022, in partnership with the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) and Sunbeam Community & Developmental Services, the WRDSB hosted Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – A Review.

The recording of this live streamed event is now available, for anyone who missed it or would like to learn more about FASD.

In this video, you will:

  • Learn about how stigma impacts students and families
  • Explore how to better recognize and support students with FASD
  • Learn about new and exciting supports in the community

About Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). FASD is a common and often under-recognized disability that affects 4% of people.

Learn more about FASD on the Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network (CanFASD) website: What is FASD?