Each year, the California Memorial Project (CMP) holds a special day of remembrance to honor people who lived and died in state institutions.
The project was created by three advocacy groups: Disability Rights California’s (DRC) Peer Self-Advocacy Program, The California Network of Mental Health Clients, and People First of California. Its mission is to ensure these individuals are remembered and to share the history of state institutions.
The third Monday of each September is known as CMP Remembrance Day, when ceremonies are held at former institutions sites across California, along with a moment of silence.
This year’s 23rd annual Remembrance Day Ceremony took place on September 15 at Napa State Hospital, hosted by Disability Rights California. The event brought together advocates, community members, and families to reflect on the lives of those who once lived there and in other institutions.
A virtual ceremony also took place this year for people unable to attend the event in person. We are grateful that their lives and stories remain a real part of our history.