Indy Rally Supports People With Disabilities, Proposed Legislation
Source: Photo Courtesy of Sascha Nixon / WIBC Radio
INDIANAPOLIS — Hoosiers joined together Wednesday to address stereotypes and discuss the importance of supporting legislation for people with disabilities.
The Caravan for Disability Freedom and Justice hosted a rally outside the Indiana State Museum. This Caravan travels across the U.S., celebrating the disability community and encouraging its members to vote.
At the event Wednesday, guest speakers – including those with disabilities and the parents of children with disabilities – told their stories.
Source: Photo Courtesy of Sascha Nixon / WIBC Radio
Jeremy Warriner with Walking Spirit explained that disabilities can affect anyone at any time. He noted that disabilities can be present from birth, or can occur due to accidents, injuries, or even old age.
Other speakers, like Emma Sullivan, highlighted the fact that some conditions are not clearly visible. She said that does not make them any easier to address, or any less important.
Multiple advocates also showed their support for the proposed LaTonya Reeves Freedom Act.
Source: Photo Courtesy of Sascha Nixon / WIBC Radio
This legislation would essentially allow people with disabilities to determine where they live and how they receive care, instead of forcing them to remain with their parents or enter institutions like nursing homes.
At this time, the legislation is only championed by two federal lawmakers: Congressmen André Carson and Frank Mrvan.
Now, you may notice that both of these leaders are Democrats. Well, one rally attendee argued that partisan politics can actually be counterproductive for those with disabilities and their families.
Source: Photo Courtesy of Sascha Nixon / WIBC Radio
He stressed that he is a very conservative Republican, meaning he fully understands the desire to spend money wisely. But, he said the stance of some Republicans on disability issues is actually more expensive.
The attendee explained that sending adults with disabilities to institutions to receive long-term care – which is what current law calls for – is more expensive than allowing them to stay home with licensed caregivers.
So, if you would like to get more involved in advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, you are urged to vote, especially in the coming Presidential election.
Ric Edwards, Chair of the Indiana ADA Steering Committee, said, “The ADA was passed based on the philosophy of inclusion. Thirty-four years later, we all need to…make sure that this is never lost.”
