Advocates for individuals with disabilities in Nevada are pushing for the state to fully embrace the “independent living” model. The philosophy revolves around individuals with disabilities being experts on their own needs and services. Dawn Lyons from the Nevada Statewide Independent Living Council emphasized the importance of unity within the disability community to send a clear message to policymakers. John Rosenlund from the Nevada Assistive Technology Collaborative stressed the need for empowerment through independent living.
In Michigan, Wayne State University has received a grant to train adapted physical education specialists to serve students with disabilities through Project SUPPORT. The project aims to address the shortage of special education instructors, particularly in urban school districts.
In New Hampshire, disability groups are advocating for the end of using the term “special” to describe people with disabilities as it can be seen as alienating and undermining disability rights efforts.
Lastly, an Iowa man with disabilities, Garret Frey, successfully sued the state to receive round-the-clock medical care and live at home. The U.S. Office for Civil Rights ruling sets a precedent for others in Iowa and across the country.
These efforts highlight the ongoing need for empowerment, inclusion, and support for individuals with disabilities across the United States.
Source
Photo credit www.publicnewsservice.org
