Centers for Independent Living are committed to removing barriers that keep people with disabilities from integrating fully into community life. There are more than 2,000 Centers for Independence nationwide that advocate for access, choice, and self-determination for individuals with disabilities.
To have so many people with disabilities show pride and integrity on the long journey to the Capitol to advocate for disability rights and reform was exhilarating. It was inspiring to see the large national movement helping establish civil rights for one of the last groups oppressed in America.
We must continue to work to promote social change, eliminate discrimination based on disability, and create opportunities for people with disabilities to affect change through the legislative process. We must continue to fight for a better America, to free our nation from a way of thinking that has led to stereotypes. The revolution of empowerment will go on!
Yvona Fast is an author, freelance writer, food columnist, editor, photographer, researcher and speaker. Her weekly food column, North Country Kitchen, has been running in local newspapers for more than 5 years. Yvona has had articles and photos in various magazines, and co-wrote a memoir with her mother. Her first book, a career guide for individuals with Asperger Syndrome or Non-Verbal Learning disability, was published in 2004. She can be reached at www.wordsaremyworld.com, has more information.
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