JEFFERSON CITY— Self-advocates and advocates from across the state are invited to the Missouri State Capitol from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday, March 1, 2023 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 various legislators and some disability advocates. After the rally, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., in-person participants can meet with their legislators.
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 (scheduled on their own or with a group)
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)
Funding for Disability Rights Legislative Day is provided by the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council, Empower Abilities, The Arc of Missouri, The St. Louis Arc, Governor’s Council on Disability and Boone County Family Resources.
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