Hundreds of self-advocates gathered in Hauppauge on March 7 to rally in support of essential services, community inclusion, and disability rights. The rally took place inside the New York State Office Building and featured speeches from Assembly Member Jodi Giglio and Senator Monica Martinez. The engaging crowd included people who depend on essential disability services from agencies across the state, their support staff, and community advocates, all banding together in support of sustainable funding.
The bipartisan call to action for disability support services highlighted that funding has been on the decline for several years and has not matched economic trends. At a time when the future of Medicaid funding hangs in the balance, people in the disability community took steps to make themselves heard.
“I wanted to see the rally. For my rights. For my program,” said Bobby Drew who receives Day Services in Freeport. “I like coming in every day and doing activities like going out. Without program, I don’t know what I would do.”
Bobby was excited to attend the rally with his support staff. He relies on a number of disability supports to help him navigate his life. Along with Day Services, he lives in a supported residence with roommates, where staff assist him with cooking, cleaning, travel, and any medical needs that arise.
“It can affect us in New York, and the whole nation,” said Coleen Mackin about potential funding cuts. “I’ve been here too many times to count. Here and in Albany.”
Coleen is aware that advocating for disability services is an ongoing task. She regularly attends rallies building relationships with advocacy groups, agency leaders, and elected officials. As an active member of the Self-Advocacy Association of New York State (SANYS), an organization founded and led by people with disabilities, she has led panels and recreational programing at their annual conference.
She credits the disability services she receives for keeping her a part of the community. With self-direction, Coleen receives support for independent housing and can hire a support worker to assist her at home. For people like Coleen, Medicaid services are more than line items on a budget, they are a lifeline to opportunity, independence, and emotional well-being.
When people with developmental disabilities are active in the community, everyone benefits. They contribute as employees, support local business and help drive the economy – yet their ability to do so relies on access to critical supports and services.
The disability community has long been advocating for inclusion and understand that active participation can make the difference when decisions are being that affect their lives. While New York State has made progress in supporting people with developmental disabilities, federal-level challenges bring uncertainty, requiring continued advocacy during this critical budget season.
Your advocacy makes a difference. Visit our advocacy center to call and send a letter to your representative to help protect essential services for people with developmental disabilities.