THE HEART OF ADVOCACY

When it comes to politics, the first words that come to mind generally are not “easy” or “accessible.”

However, politics is just advocacy, and at some time or another in all our lives we have advocated for change, whether it be large or small.

Have you advocated for your child’s IEP? Have you asked for a reasonable accommodation at work? Have you advocated for a friend in need? Then you already have the skills, and The Arc of Spokane wants to give you the platform!

Advocacy means taking action to create change. It means researching new solutions, creating coalitions and groups of like-minded people, raising awareness of important issues and matters, and much more.

All chapters of The Arc are built on a foundation of advocacy; we want to empower those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), their families, caregivers, and allies to help make a difference, tell their stories, and rock the IDD vote!

Political advocacy is supporting a change or creation of an issue on a local, state, or federal level. People voice their opinions through emails, letters, calls, and social media posts to their elected officials. Even if a legislator supports your issue, participating in political advocacy can drive them to prioritize your issue over others if you drive enough engagement in a campaign.

We want you to get involved by sharing ways for you to have your voice heard in easy, quick, and meaningful ways - joining a Zoom meeting, pressing “send” on a pre-filled email to your representatives, or simply exercising your right to vote.

ADVOCACY DAYS

Advocacy Days are held during each legislative session to involve individuals with IDD and their support systems in the legislative process. This allows for opportunities to make their voices heard by sharing their stories and helping legislators understand a lived experience that may be different from their own. These stories can lead to changes in services and supports available to people with IDD.

Advocacy Days are held on Zoom and begin January 5, 2023. Learn more and register here.

If you would like to share your story or sign up for emails on important legislation to be passed, it’s as simple as joining The Arc of Washington’s Action Center.

REAL CHANGE IS POSSIBLE

Never feel as if your voice will get lost. Just last year, a record-breaking 22 bills passed that benefit and affect the systems serving the IDD community! These included: HB 1980: People with IDD will now receive community inclusion and employment services at the same time. Previously, people with IDD had to pick one or the other, but now can enjoy work opportunities and recreational activities together.

HB 2008: IQ Scores will no longer be used to prevent people with IDD from receiving services from DDA. Now more people who need important services will be eligible! The Supplemental Budget was negotiated between the House and Senate, and it has significant investments in Supported Living. Funding will be provided to increase rates for Supported Living and other community residential service providers, helping to provide a fair wage, and better ensure we can hire the best people to take care of those with IDD.

BE PART OF THE MOVEMENT

If you want to learn more about how to advocate for change in easy ways with a big impact, contact The Arc of Spokane’s Parent Coalition by calling (509) 328-6326 or emailing advocacy@arc-spokane.org. This group is made up of those with IDD, parents, guardians, caregivers, and allies who are passionate about improving the lives of people with IDD.

Together we will create the change we want to see!