International Stuttering Awareness Day: Reflecting on “Learning to Be” by K. Smith

Every October 22, the world comes together to recognize International Stuttering Awareness Day (ISAD) — a day dedicated to raising understanding, challenging stigma, and amplifying the voices of those who stutter. First established in 1998 by organizations including the International Stuttering Association, the International Fluency Association, and the European League of Stuttering Associations, ISAD provides a global platform for people who stutter, speech-language therapists, families, and allies to share, listen, and learn. 

Over time, ISAD has grown beyond a single day into a month-long online community, featuring first-person stories, creative expressions, research, and open discussion. This year’s theme, “A Diverse Stuttering Community — Meeting Challenges With Strengths,” invites reflection on the many ways stuttering shapes identity, connection, and resilience.

The CST is honored to share a deeply personal narrative from one of our very own group members. In “Learning to Be,” K. Smith shares an honest look at their experience with stuttering — the challenges, progress, and effort involved in finding their own voice.

We invite you to read K. Smith’s story. May it deepen your empathy, broaden your view of what it means to stutter, and inspire all of us to listen more generously.

Read “Learning to Be” by K. Smith →