You will be hearing a lot more about this coalition from me (that’s a promise, not a threat!). We are just getting organized, and are noodling out ways to expand from our original core group into a truly state-wide and inclusive coalition. We are talking about doing 8 outreach gatherings in various places around the state over the next few weeks.
I am representing the Asperger’s Association of New England (AANE) as a self-advocate, and there are representatives of many other groups involved in this start-up, which is funded by a federal grant through the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC), and administered by the Disability Law Center of Massachusetts (DLC).
Tomorrow (November 1) we will be discussing how we can get involved in the issue of transportation in the state for people with disabilities. In April of this year, Governor Patrick issued Executive Order 530 to establish a Commission to study this issue. In keeping with the Disability Rights Movement motto “Nothing About Us Without Us!” we want to be sure that we voice our opinions.
At our last meeting, we finalized our vision statement.
Vision Statement for CDAC:
The Cross-Disability Advocacy Coalition will become a strong, united voice for people with disabilities and lived experience. The Coalition will be engaged and form partnerships that identify common denominators and build a powerful constituency influencing legislation and policy change that improves the lives of our community and ensures full inclusion.
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