A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to participate in my first advocacy trip with the Center for Disability Rights. The day began bright and early at 5:30 a.m. Many laughed at the thought of the 5′4″ Assistant Director of Human Resources driving the very large, raised roof, wheelchair-lift equipped Regional Center for Independent Living (RCIL) van, but I was determined to get us to and from Albany.

I didn’t exactly know what to expect from the trip, other than I anticipated it would give me a greater sense of the bigger picture of the work we do at CDR. The day was phenomenal. It was unbelievable to think that I would be sitting in the offices of elected officials including Members of the Assembly David Gantt, Susan John and Bill Reilich, and senator Joe Robach. This was my opportunity to express the importance of accessibility in newly built homes, transportation issues, and the need for funding for Independent living services in Wayne County.

For those of us who don’t normally go on advocacy trips, when we receive an alert in regards to a pending issue, we bombard the involved parties with e-mails, phone calls, and faxes stating why we think a bill should be supported and how it could incorporate with our efforts for the full integration, independence, and civil rights of the individuals we serve. But by participating on this trip I was able to tune into the heart of CDR. It was as if the action alerts had come to life.

By working in Human resources, I have seen the importance of how hiring qualified employees enables our programs to adequately provide services to our consumers, but being apart of Disability Awareness Day; I was able to experience first hand why the Center for Disability Rights exists! We are all about changing systems so that people with disabilities can live more meaningful, integrated, independent lives.
I would like to commend Terrie Lincoln and Anita Cameron, for their organizing efforts. Before each meeting with either a Senator/Assemblymember, Terrie overviewed the official’s position on certain legislation and what issues should be discussed.

Being the chosen driver was an experience within itself. I remember on our ride home driving through the hills outside Albany, making sure that I drove down the hills with ease for the comfort of my passengers. On a continual basis I asked them “how was that bump?” and I would receive an array of responses including “10!”. The trip was memorable, and I look forward to participating in more in the future.