Much has been said about the incredibly moving moment between a father, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and his son, Gus at last week’s Democratic National Convention (DNC). The father-son embrace has sparked a nationwide conversation that has shed new light on people with disabilities for the unique and individual differences of our community. This conversation is understandably not about politics, but about awareness of the magnificent community we serve – the children and their siblings, family members, and the millions around the world whose lives inspire us daily.

In a now viral moment, Gus Walz displayed a deeply emotional reaction when his father delivered his acceptance speech. Sobbing openly, he mouthed the words, “That’s my dad!”

It was the type of admiration we see all the time here at The Center for Discovery – the love each family member has for their child or sibling in our program, and the love that child has for them, in return.

Gus has a nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD), which, according to the Child Mind Institute, affects “‘non-verbal’ kinds of learning like the ability to notice patterns and learn concepts. These include visual patterns, social patterns, and concepts in language and math.” 

A 2020 study estimated that as many as 2.9 million children and adolescents in North America have nonverbal learning disability. Per the Mayo Clinic, individuals with non-verbal learning disorders typically possess “good basic language skills.” 

Whatever your political views, the love shown by Gus for his father and the open communication the Walz family has shared about their son is a win for everyone, especially those with NVLD. Despite the decades of awareness campaigns and profound progress of organizations that support the disabled, it is clear from some of the harsh language directed at this father-son embrace that there is still a lot of work left to be done.

“There is more we can do to educate those outside the disability community, starting with advocacy and open conversation. The beautiful moment between a father and son that resonated with people around the  world is a chance for education and dialogue—and ultimately, change,” said Dr. Theresa Hamlin, President & CEO of The Center for Discovery.

“It took time, but what became so immediately clear to us was that Gus’ condition is not a setback — it’s his secret power,” the Walz family said in a statement to People Magazine.

The Center is a community that prides itself on self-expression, be it verbal or non-verbal, and whatever the circumstance, we offer tools that enable all individuals the ability to communicate. Each person in our care has their own secret power, we just help them find it. 

Our greatest wish is for every person in the world who faces challenges is to find their super power, too.

The Center for Discovery® (TCFD, The Center) is a non-profit organization, designated as a Center of Excellence by the New York State Department of Health and OPWDD. The Center is a major research and specialty center that offers residential, medical, clinical and special education programs as well as world-class Music and Creative Arts Therapy, Adapted Physical Education, and a biodynamic agricultural program among other unique services.