Maria C.’s Post

Today, we recognize the importance of digital access and inclusion for people with disabilities. As we celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day, let's reflect on how far we have come and how much further we need to go to ensure everyone has access to the same digital opportunities. In the spirit of progress and support for accessibility, we urge our fellow Massachusetts residents to actively advocate for continued support of vital programs that make a real difference. Senator Michael D. Brady has filed Amendment 464 to secure crucial funding for our program, which is a vital safety net for individuals with disabilities, seniors, veterans, and families across the state. Here's how you can help: Reach out to your state senator and urge them to co-sponsor Amendment 464 to provide $500,000 in missing annualization funding to support durable medical equipment reuse. You can find your senator's contact information here: https://lnkd.in/eDJhQuG Let's use Global Accessibility Awareness Day as a reminder to champion the causes that help integrate technology and accessibility into everyday life. Each action, each voice, and each effort counts towards building an inclusive future. #GAAD #Accessibility #Inclusion #DigitalAccessForAll #Massachusetts #Legislature #SupportAmendment464 #MAPoli #AssistiveTechnology #DurableMedicalEquipment #Reuse #Recycle #A11y

The University of Kansas Institute for Health and Disability Policy Studies, funded by the Administration for Community Living's National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), is seeking adults with disabilities to complete the 2023 National Survey on Health and Disability (NSHD). The NSHD gives voice to the concerns of people with disabilities and documents their experiences with a variety of issues, including access to health care, insurance coverage, housing, transportation, Long COVID, employment, education, and more. The survey is open to U.S. adults 18 and older with any disability and/or health condition. It is important for the experiences of individuals with Down syndrome to be included in this survey. To take the survey, follow this link - 

𝗠𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟 𝗢𝗙 𝗗𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗩𝗦. 𝗦𝗢𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗟 𝗢𝗙 𝗗𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬 Have you heard of these models of disability? Both models offer contrasting perspectives on how disability is understood and addressed! The Medical Model views disability as a defect or illness, focusing on diagnosing and treating it which often leads to the discrimination of disabled individuals. It largely emphasises on what individuals cannot do and their dependency on healthcare professionals. However, the Social Model of Disability calls us to shift the focus away from the individual. It argues that the societal and environmental barriers discriminate the disabled individuals and limit what they can do. It is crucial to listen to the voices of the disabled individuals and instead of ‘fixing’ them, advocate for society to be more accessible, inclusive and have equal opportunities. 💪🏼 Follow us to learn more about disability and share with those around you!

I often explore areas where vulnerability intersects with systemic issues, such as safety and human rights. One alarming statistic that continues to deeply resonate with me is that individuals with disabilities are three times more likely to be sexually assaulted than those without disabilities (World Health Organization, 2021). This stark disparity is not just a statistic; it's a glaring indication of the urgent need for tailored protective measures and comprehensive support systems. I want to emphasize the importance of understanding the vulnerabilities that contribute to such high rates of sexual assault among people with disabilities. It is crucial to implement specialized training for caregivers, law enforcement, and legal personnel to recognize, prevent, and properly address sexual assaults against individuals with disabilities. Our advocacy doesn't stop at awareness; it extends to action. We need to push for better support at all levels—from healthcare and legal aid to community services. Every measure we take brings us closer to a society where the rights and safety of every individual are upheld. Let's use this knowledge not just to inform, but to inspire change. Together, we can make a difference. Join me in advocating for a safer, more inclusive world. #DisabilityRights #SexualAssaultAwareness #InclusionMatters https://lnkd.in/gNdkemzG

Discrimination against people with disabilities is a problem that needs to change. They face challenges and deserve a fair and inclusive society. In education, they often get fewer resources and lower expectations, which holds them back from reaching their full potential. In the job market, they face exclusion and limited roles due to misconceptions and biases. On top of that, disabled individuals deal with prejudice and stereotypes that make them feel less valued. They deserve respect and recognition as equals. At FIRST ADAPTATION LIMITIED, we stand up for change. We work with organizations, schools, and communities to raise awareness and understanding. We help businesses create fair opportunities through training, policies, and accessibility improvements. Our goal is to build a future where disability is seen as a strength and inclusion is normal. Join us on this journey to empower the disabled community. Let's break barriers and empower everyone to succeed. Check out how we can work together via www.firstadaptation.com Happy Weekend to you all Happy Good Friday #disabilityawareness #disabilitydiscrimination #disabilityinclusion #accesssolutions

The way surveys ask about disability affects the accuracy of the count of disabled people in the U.S. Without an accurate count, researchers and policymakers cannot develop and evaluate interventions aimed at ensuring equity for Americans with disabilities. Learn more in this brief: https://lnkd.in/dZyNG6RY

What high risks cases of GBV do we need urgent funding for women with disabilities? 🔹 Accessible Services: Ensuring that support services, shelters, and resources are fully accessible and accommodating for women with various disabilities. 🔹 Specialized Care: Providing tailored care, including medical assistance, counseling, and rehabilitation programs that cater to the unique needs of women with disabilities. 🔹 Empowerment Programs: Offering empowerment initiatives, skills training, and education to empower women with disabilities and help them regain independence. 🔹 Advocacy and Awareness: Raising awareness about the intersection of disability and GBV, advocating for policies that protect these women, and promoting a culture of inclusivity. Unless these high risks cases are addressed with preventable conscience, spaces would be safe and free for all citizens.

🗣️ Speak Up for Equity WAIV students, your unique perspectives matter! Let’s raise awareness about the inequities faced by people with disabilities. Share your experiences, insights, and recommendations with OSTP. Together, we can drive meaningful change. 💪 #WAIVatthebeach #DOR #disabilityawareness #disabilityempowerment #CSULB #disabilityinclusion #inclusionmatters

🌟#CSGJC is proud to support the Americans with Disabilities Act's (ADA) 34th anniversary. This landmark legislation has been instrumental in advancing the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Join us as we shine a spotlight on resources focused on improving outcomes for people with disabilities in the justice system. ✅ The Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program (JMHCP) funds innovative programs between justice entities and partnering behavioral health agencies. Watch our webinar to learn more on how they safely divert people away from the justice system while increasing access to behavioral health treatment. https://bit.ly/3SllzvO ✅ This brief highlights efforts across the country for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the criminal justice system to gain equal access and support. From screening tools to specialized court programs, learn how communities are striving for fairness and inclusivity. https://bit.ly/4cXe3j7 Together, we can build a system that supports every person's right to justice and dignity. #ADA34 #ADAAnniversary #InclusiveJustice

Welcome to part 3 - Choice, Control & Community Supported Self-Determination of the Independent Movement Recommitment. The time has come to not let apathy cause loss of rights and to make sure the next generation not only has all the rights deserved, but also takes up the torch to continue the movement. I am in learning mode, I call myself a disability advocate in training. So I welcome ideas, conversation and challenges. Enjoy the read. https://lnkd.in/dqznHJPF #IndependentLiving #InterdependentLiving #DisabilityLed #NothingWithoutUs #DisabilityJustice #HumanRights. #RightToChoose #SelfDirectedDecisionMaking Image description - Series of doors of different size, texture and color representing the right to make different choices and live more independently.