#AdvocacyMatters: A Year of Conversations
December 6, 2024 / #AdvocacyMatters
Throughout the past year, we’ve met with legislators and legislative staff at the Ohio Statehouse to share our work and answer questions about our organization. Sessions have covered impactful topics like our investigation and monitoring activities at facilities throughout the state, systemic barriers preventing Ohioans with disabilities from being full and equal members of their communities, the state’s mental health service systems, and inequity in education. These forums have kickstarted discussion and an elevated understanding of our role as Ohio’s Protection & Advocacy System (P&A) for people with disabilities.
Late last month, a contingent of advocates, experts, and DRO team members met with legislators and their aides to discuss systemic policy initiatives and inclusion in the decision-making process.
“Legislative staff need a better understanding of the disability community, service system, and leading advocates. This helps better connect staff to the issues and people who know best how an effective service system operates and the necessary changes needed to be made to get there,” reflected Jordan Ballinger, DRO Policy Director. “Our November Info Session was a first step in a continued conversation about bring advocates to the decision-making table in the Ohio Statehouse.”
In addition to Jordan, participants in the discussion included Disability Rights Advocate from The Ability Center of Greater Toledo Sally Fish, Disability Rights Attorney and Director of Advocacy at The Ability Center of Greater Toledo Katie Hunt Thomas, DRO Board Member Georgie Elson, Chair of The Ohio Olmstead Task Force Jennifer Kucera, DRO Community Engagement Coordinator Brittanie Maddox, DRO Legal Advocacy Director Suzanne Musleh, and DRO President and CEO Kerstin Sjoberg.
Our work is complex, but its importance is often best explained by the advocates working towards our ultimate vision. By sharing the story of our work with those in positions of power, we hope to open a bridge where the voices of disabled Ohioans are truly elevated.
#AdvocacyMatters