During our Compass Validation visit, self-advocate Brian Johnson sat with Lisa Petrocci-Clay, Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) Standards Compliance Analyst, for an interview.
As Day Hab Council President, Brian spoke about his advocacy and leadership during our recent voting initiative which empowered hundreds of people to use their voice through the power of the ballot box.
Lisa’s role is to assess how agencies meet Compass’ criteria. She spoke with Brian to better understand how the agency supports him to achieve his goals. With support from Activity Specialist Sue Limiti, Brian shared what drives his advocacy work.
“I want people to be active voters,” Brian said. “If you have a voice and don’t use it, what do you have a voice for? Because voting gives you a voice.”
Brian’s commitment to civic participation extends beyond the voting booth. He shared how he developed relationships with local assembly members and has continued to speak up for people with disabilities. He proudly recounted his experience voting in the 2016 election, and how he’s maintained his status as an active voter ever since.
For Brian, staff pay and increased funding for disability services are core issues, and he knows that voting is key to securing more support.
The OPWDD analyst acknowledged his commitment, noting, “Knowledge is power, and he understands that voting is their right and power. He’s advocating for people to use their voice, leading his peers, and people who, for many years, didn’t have a voice.”
Brian’s efforts during the voter registration initiative led to successful outcomes. Colleen Tapia, Compass and QI Administrator, emphasized the campaign’s impact.
“We registered 271 voters, up from 56 the year prior,” said Colleen. “The whole initiative is about people having a voice in issues that directly affect their lives. By voting, they are taking action for their lives, and it further connects people to their greater community.”
Through leadership, education, and advocacy, Brian has become a model for what it means to be engaged. He is a thoughtful and vocal leader who believes that everyone should have the opportunity to have their voice heard.