Nothing About Us Without Us!

Nothing About Us Without Us!
by Joy Caldwell

Skagit Parent Coalition Coordinator

Please, don’t talk ABOUT me; talk TO me.
Please don’t make decisions FOR me; make decisions WITH me.

My family & I had the pleasure of attending the DD Awareness Rally in Olympia on Wednesday, March 11 as we stood on the Capitol steps with upwards of 700+ people. Self-advocates Tyler & Troy from Skagit County attended with us and had a great day advocating for themselves. They both want to attend again before the end of the session.

Several speakers with developmental disabilities rallied the shivering crowd with their inspiring and courageous personal stories. Their imploring message for government and their fellow citizens to support them as they live and work in the community was loud and clear. The crowd warmed up as they cheered and chanted “Nothing about us, without us!” as the speakers explained that “People with developmental disabilities are PEOPLE FIRST.” They want to make their own choices about where they live, most preferring to live in their home communities not institutions in a distant county. They want to choose what type of work they’re interested in to work independently in their local communities, not isolated and segregated away from the rest of the population. They are not objects who should have things done TO them. They are people who need continued help, supports and services FOR them.

We spent the next couple of hours connecting with our Representatives and Senators, asking them to remain committed to the level of services that we have fought so hard for over the past few decades to achieve. Especially during the toughest of times our most vulnerable citizens cannot afford to lose services and go backwards. They rely on our support and assistance now more than ever.

I was very impressed with Tyler and Troy as they introduced themselves to legislators, security guards, other advocates, and family members. They spoke very clearly and directly about their lives, their jobs and how important their independence is to them.

Visit our web-site to learn more or come to Olympia on an upcoming trip. www.skagitparentcoalition.org