JEFFERSON CITY – -On Wednesday, March 1, hundreds of people with disabilities and their advocates from across the state will attend the Missouri State Capitol 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., for Disability Rights Legislative Day.
Participants will have an opportunity to have their voice heard on the issues that matter to them most. Self-Advocates and advocates can participate in person and virtually so people with disabilities, family members and others can participate regardless of where they live in the state.
A rally will take place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including self-advocate leaders and various legislators. First Lady Teresa Parson will proclaim March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in the State of Missouri. After the rally, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., in-person participants can meet with their legislators, attend hearings and address the issues most important to them.
As part of the “WE the People” theme, the rally will feature speakers focused on issues including Transportation, Employment and the Caregiver Crisis. Participants are encouraged to meet with their legislators and talk about these topics or any other issues that affect their lives.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to register online at https://drld.org/.
In-Person Participants can expect:
· A rally with legislators and self-advocates expressing their support and highlighting important disability issues
· The afternoon to set up meet and greets with policymakers
· Training and resources to help participants tell their stories and advocate about what matters most to them leading up to and following the event
Virtual Participants can expect:
· High-quality streaming of the rally
· Training and Resources on how to interact with your legislator in their home district
· After-event resources to continue engaging with elected officials
· Afternoon Zoom Session with selected legislators and key officials (to be announced)
The rally is co-sponsored by a coalition of disability-related organizations from around the state.
There will be ample opportunity for media coverage and there are always rally participants eager to share their stories.
The Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (MODDC) is a federally-funded, 23-member, consumer-driven council appointed by the Governor. Its mandate under P.L. 106-402, the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, is to assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to needed community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination, independence, productivity and integration in all aspects of community life.
To learn more or to get involved, visit www.moddcouncil.org