#AdvocacyMatters: On Connecting and Understanding

December 2, 2022 / #AdvocacyMatters

In the ladder that our societal structure has become, the steps between marginalized communities and those in power are many. The path between them – fraught with obstacles and pitfalls – can be insurmountable. So how can we realize our goal of ensuring people with disabilities have a seat at the table where decisions are being made? Creative solutions are necessary not just in building bridges over this gap, but to elevate people with disabilities out of and above marginalization.

Over the past few months, DRO partnered with Centers for Independent Living to host congressional visits. These events were designed so that advocates from all across Ohio could meet their US representatives or their surrogates directly… opening a two-way stream of communication to foster better understanding on both sides.

Six of these events took place all across the state, with more than 50 advocates attending both in-person and virtually to meet with their representatives or surrogates.

“Getting involved in federal politics can often feel out of reach. Our representatives are all the way in D.C., but each representative has multiple in-district offices. Meeting with these local offices is a great way to build a relationship with the representative and share information important to our communities,” said Alexia Kemerling, DRO’s Community Engagement Coordinator.

Continuing to create opportunities like these will help build relationships, successfully advocate, and achieve a deeper level of understanding… impacting and informing policy, and shaping a more equitable future. #AdvocacyMatters