Paul and Hava: A Pathway to Marriage
The NYS Council on Developmental Disabilities (CDD) created Paul and Hava: A Pathway to Marriage to highlight the experiences of people with developmental disabilities navigating relationships. Paul and Hava were introduced to the CDD when they were part of a panel presentation titled ‘Supporting Romantic Relationships: Barriers and Opportunities’. Joined by family and support staff, Paul and Hava shared their journey of advocacy and determination on the couple's pathway to be married. A few years later, the CDD had the opportunity to preserve their story by supporting the development of a video, with the goal of sharing Paul and Hava's story as an example what is possible.
Meet the Couple
A Right to Marry
Marriage is a commitment grounded in love, partnership, and shared life goals. For people with developmental disabilities (DD), this commitment carries the same meaning and importance as it does for anyone else. While the story of Paul and Hava shows what is possible, their experience is just one example within a broader movement toward recognizing and supporting the relationships of people with DD.
Historically, people with developmental disabilities have faced significant barriers to marriage. These have included financial barriers, limited access to education about relationships, and systems that do not always recognize or support their autonomy. Supporting marriage for people with developmental disabilities requires a collaborative approach. Families, service providers, advocates, and policymakers all play a role in creating an environment where individuals can explore relationships safely and confidently.
Resources
Elevatus is a national leader in the field of sexuality and intellectual developmental disabilities and autism. They offer an evidence and trauma-informed curriculum, online training, in-services, and workshops to help professionals, educators, self-advocates, and parents skillfully and confidently navigate the topic of sexuality.