Disability advocacy is the key to creating meaningful, lasting change in our communities. It wasn’t too long ago that people with disabilities suffered dehumanizing, inhumane, and abusive treatment by harmful social policies and misguided government entities. Every action, no matter how small, can make a difference for people living with disabilities. Here are some ways you can get involved with disability advocacy to help build a safer, stronger, more accessible world.
Advocacy is a powerful tool for change, large and small. The history of disability rights is filled with key moments that have defined our current understanding of what it means to live with a disability. Although we still have a long way to go, we have come a long way in the last couple of centuries.
Advocates have helped pave the way for greater social awareness and better-informed public policy, generating powerful community movements that have made it easier for people with disabilities to access the resources, services, and fair treatment they deserve.
The long timeline of disability rights includes revolutionary milestones, heartbreaking setbacks, and victories that would not have been possible without dedicated community and self-advocates.
The input and leadership of people with disabilities is a cornerstone of disability rights activism, advocacy, and change. Those with lived experiences offer valuable knowledge, perspective, and skills to help individuals, organizations, and institutions understand what steps they can take to create a more equitable, accessible world.
The disability rights movement in the United States wouldn’t have been possible without scores of brave adults with disabilities who dedicated their lives to making real-world change.
It’s important to include individuals with disabilities in decision-making and advisory processes, especially when it comes to public policy. People with disabilities are at the heart of the movement, and it’s only right that their voices be heard.
There are many ways to make an impact in your community. Whether you have a disability and want to practice stronger self-advocacy or a non-disabled person looking to be a more vocal ally, there are numerous ways to get involved and help drive positive change.
Stay engaged with local, state, and federal politics. Pay attention to ballot measures, laws, and propositions that affect the disability community. Political, economic, and social issues can greatly impact the quality of life for people with IDDs.
Disability Rights California offers public policy resources to help voters stay informed and up-to-date on relevant state legislation and budget items. Every vote matters when it comes to promoting accessibility, education, disability resources, support services, funding, and awareness are key to continuing the fight for a fairer world.
Meaningful change can start in your own backyard. Get involved with local chapters of organizations like:
There are many groups, large and small, that do valuable work every day. Look for volunteer opportunities and resources in your area.
Disability advocacy doesn’t need to take up hours of your time—it’s something you can practice every day in small, meaningful ways. Share your story, amplify disabled voices, contact your elected officials, ask questions, and share ideas. Use social media platforms to share resources, promote community events, and spread awareness.
Mutual aid is about creating networks of care and support within our communities. When government services and safety nets aren’t accessible or available, grassroots organizations and mutual aid groups become essential.
Fundraising, food drives, and individualized support, such as providing safe transportation and housing, can have a huge impact on the well-being of disabled people in your community.
There are many ways to educate yourself and others about the importance of disability advocacy. Here are some organizations that offer certifications, courses, and outreach programs:
We can often feel powerless as individuals, but advocacy comes in all shapes and sizes. Building a better world begins with each of us. At NeuroNav, we believe in shaping the future of disability rights with empowerment and advocacy, giving individuals the freedom and support they need to make decisions about the things that matter most.
In California, the Self-Determination Program (SDP) gives individuals with IDDs more choice in the services they receive. Through our independent facilitation services, we help individuals and their families navigate the enrollment process and offer ongoing support so you can get the help you need. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more.