Cultural and Linguistic Competence Resources and Equity

Beyond Forest Haven

This black and white aerial photograph shows a large institutional complex with multiple rectangular buildings arranged around courtyards, surrounded by open fields and scattered trees in a rural setting.

This historical documentary captures a pivotal moment in disability rights history – the closure of Forest Haven, a residential institution for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Washington, D.C. The Georgetown University Center for Child and Human Development (now Thrive Center) played an instrumental role in transitioning residents to community-based living, demonstrating the power of inclusive, dignified care. This work exemplifies the center’s enduring commitment to partnering with individuals, families, and communities to create lasting positive change. [Content Warning: This documentary contains historical footage that may be distressing, showing conditions within institutional care facilities from this era.]

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