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Hello Fellow Advocates,
Image: The Walz Family
I feel compelled to speak out on an issue that resonates deeply with many of us. As a mother of a special needs child, I was especially moved by a powerful moment at the Democratic National Convention when 17-year-old Gus Walz, son of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, proudly reacted about his father’s vice-presidential candidacy. Gus, who lives with ADHD and a nonverbal learning disorder, showed raw emotion—an act that deserves our deepest respect.
Unfortunately, this moment was tainted by cruel online bullying. As Katy Neas, our CEO of The Arc of the US, so eloquently stated, “It’s not just that Gus is a child with disabilities; it’s that he’s a child. He deserves to be seen and valued for who he is, not as a symbol of something else.” This behavior is not just an attack on Gus; it is an affront to all families, including mine, who are raising neurodivergent children and simply want our loved ones to exist authentically in the world.
Disability is a nonpartisan issue that impacts approximately 70 million adults in the United States, which is more than 1 in 4 adults. 290,000 individuals in Illinois alone have an intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD).
These numbers represent real lives—families, friends, and communities impacted by the challenges of living with disabilities. At The Arc of Illinois, we are dedicated to amplifying the voices of those often unheard and advocating for a society that values every individual as they are.
In Illinois, children with disabilities are two to three times more likely to be bullied than their peers. This alarming reality highlights a societal failure we must address. Our children deserve the right to be themselves, not seen as symbols of struggle or triumph. Too many families endure isolation and misunderstanding, suffering behind closed doors due to fear and stigma.
We must challenge the narrative that equates disability with weakness. Our loved ones shouldn’t have to conform to be accepted; their unique strengths enrich our communities, and it’s time we celebrate that diversity!
As advocates, we must stand against the bullying and ridicule that individuals with disabilities face. Allowing such behavior is a failure of society. We need to create inclusive spaces where everyone is valued, combat stigma, and foster understanding so individuals with disabilities can thrive as their authentic selves.
Gus Walz reminds us of the work still ahead. In Illinois, we have the opportunity to lead by example. Let’s advocate for policies that ensure full participation in society—whether in schools, workplaces, or national conventions—free from judgment and ridicule.
Let’s unite for a future where everyone belongs, where individuals with disabilities are not just included but celebrated! This fight goes beyond inclusion; it’s about the right to exist authentically and unapologetically in a world that often demands conformity. Illinois, we have work to do, but there is hope on the horizon. Your voice matters—share your stories with me at Samantha@thearcofil.org.
Truly, Samantha Alloway , Executive Director, The Arc of Illinois
Recently Received an Early Notification Letter or a PUNS Selection Letter?
Join the Know Your Options
Virtual Monthly Webinar
12:00-1:00 p.m.
Learn about your options under the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver for Adults with Developmental Disabilities in Illinois.
We will discuss service and support options, explore the role of your ISC, review the key steps you need to take to prepare for supports, and talk through common concerns and barriers.
Webinar is free; registration is required.
The next webinar will be on Thursday, September 5th, 2024 at 12:00-1:00 pm.
Filming is wrapping up on Going Home Coalition’s, Voices of Advocacy, Voices of Change,video series thanks to Grassroots Project and Coleman Foundation Funding.
We want to extend our sincere thanks to the following participants for sharing their powerful and moving stories:John Porter; April Mclees; Jaclyn Vasquez; Denise and Gabby Resnick; Lisa Kennedy; Donise, Denise, and Donnie Von Moore; Ana Cruz; Piankhi Diggs; Da Wen Mei; Kristin Hadley; and Charles Sarbaugh.
We are also grateful to our videography team Bridget Brown, Nancy Brown, and Ryan O’Connell.
Join our post-production watch party by emailing admin@thearcofil.organd let us know if you would like to participate in this ongoing project in the future.
Honoring Greatness
Image: Carole Rosen and Senator Harkin (Ret)
Upon passage of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Senator Harkin delivered a speech on the Senate Floor on July 13, 1990, beginning solely in sign language, a first in the history of the Senate. Harkin signed: “Mr. President, today was my proudest day in 16 years in congress. Today, congress opens the doors to all Americans with disabilities. Today, we said no to fear, no to ignorance, no to prejudice. The ADA is the 20th century’s Emancipation Proclamation for all Americans with disabilities. Today, the US Senate will say to all Americans that the days of segregation, the days of inequality, are over. And by your winning your full civil rights, you strengthen ours. I thank all of my fellow senators for helping pass the ADA today. Thank you.”- Google
This clip is a video of that amazing historical moment.
This wonderful man worked with folks on both sides of the aisle to create the piece of legislation that continues to guide our work today.
It was an unforgettable honor to spend time speaking about his ideas on issues that face us as we continue our work.
Illinois, what say you?
We love you, and even with historic investment into the DD system, we have a great distance to travel for Illinois to be on par with the strides other states have made.
You will receive a ton of resources in the 2024Disability Voting Rights Week Toolkit for free social media graphics, sample press releases, messaging guidance, and more. The toolkit will continue to be updated with more resources throughout the summer.
Advocate Erin Comptonjoined me on my 100 Day Vote Shirt Challenge all the way from Dubai!
Now, That’s Commitment!
I’m still at it too! Only 71 Days to go until the election!
Send me a pic of you in your vote t-shirt, and we’ll post it.
The more the merrier!
Don’t Wait To Get Your Awesome Vote T-shirt!
The Arc of Illinois Bonfire store now has several must-have styles including a REV UP Illinois branded T-shirt. And, you have lots of colors to choose from! Check those out here!
Register, Educate, Vote!
Ashley Mcleod, Ruth Pligge, and Rachel Costabile from Just a Dollop combined their love of healthy cooking and talked about the importance of the disability vote in this fun fantastic video. Check it out here!
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