Let's Not Be Lazy; Lessons On Appropriation

Sometimes change happens in the in-between times. In the quiet moments. When you stop and listen more than you talk. I know these interactions seem few and far between these days. With social media amplifying polarizing points of view, it sometimes feels like the whole world is just screaming past each other. How can that leave room for growth, reflection, and true coalition-building?

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President Joe Biden and His Promises to Disabled People

I don't know if it is possible to write about politics without getting political— but I'm darn sure going to try. I thought it was about time to look at how the Biden Administration is doing at keeping its promises to the disabled community. Because let's face it, politicians will promise you the moon when they want your vote, but the promises can be tossed into the ash heap of history once they get into office.

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Crip Camp Loses at The Oscars in Another Slight to the Disability Community

I don't know why it should surprise me anymore. The Motion Picture Academy had a historic opportunity to recognize a Sundance Film Festival Award-Winning documentary, Crip Camp, telling the story of one of the most significant civil rights protests in this country's history.

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Recent Changes to the Law Allowing Flying with Service Animals

In December 2020, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced changes to the Air Carrier Access Act, the law which allows service animals on airplanes. The new law limits service animals to dogs only and states that emotional service animals can no longer be considered service animals.

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Get Involved: United Spinal Association's Virtual Roll on Capitol Hill

Part of my goal for this blog is to become a resource of information for news and events happening within the disability community. I want to help spread the word but also include my perspectives. An opportunity to do so came across my desk when I read through my recent New Mobility Magazine issue.

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Transportation Access: Overcoming Mobility Barriers for Disabled People

Access to transportation is a fundamental right, yet many disabled individuals encounter significant barriers. This blog post delves into these challenges and calls for vital improvements in public transportation accessibility.

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No Pity: Addressing the Positive Aspects of Being Disabled

The overarching narrative in society is very ableist and often portrays disability with very negative stereotypes. While the truth is, there are some challenges to being disabled, there are also positive aspects of disabled life that need, and should, be celebrated. This blog post attempts to shed light on some of these ideas.

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Decorating My Scooter Panels

Let's talk arts and crafts! Extra time being at home during the shelter-in-place periods of the pandemic gave me the time to work on some projects that had been on my to-do list for years—one of these projects combined two of my favorite things: crafting and advocacy. My idea was to customize my Pride Go-Go mobility scooter into a rolling billboard that visually expresses different advocacy and social justice themes.

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Navigating College Life: Essential Tips for Students with Disabilities

Starting college at a 4-year university far from home is an exciting adventure, especially for students with disabilities. Equip yourself with these essential tips to navigate college life confidently and make the most of your university experience.

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Understanding the Impact of Olmstead v. L.C. and E.W.

Learn about the pivotal disability rights Supreme Court Case of Olmstead v. L.C. and E.W. Understand the legal, social, and practical outcomes of this landmark decision that said that separate is not equal when it comes to where disabled people live. SCOTUS affirmed that disabled people should have the right to live in the community of their choosing.

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Tailored Eating Habits for People with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses

Tailoring your nutrition when you have a disability or chronic illness isn't about restrictions; it's about empowerment. By understanding your unique needs, embracing personalization, and listening to your body, you can create a supportive dietary plan that fuels your health journey.

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Overcoming Medical Gaslighting: 5 Empowering Tips for Chronically Ill and Disabled Patients

Encountering dismissal or gaslighting by healthcare professionals can be disheartening for anyone, especially for those with disabilities or chronic health conditions. Equip yourself with 5 proactive strategies to effectively advocate for your health to receive the care you deserve and are entitled to by law.

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Understanding Non-Apparent Disabilities: Challenges and Inclusion Strategies

Non-apparent (or sometimes referred to as invisible or hidden) disabilities often go unnoticed, yet they significantly impact individuals' lives. This post delves into the hurdles and hidden advantages of these conditions, alongside actionable steps towards creating a more inclusive society.

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Why Independent Living Centers Exist

This blog post is about why Independent Living Centers exist for disabled people. What they are, what services they provide, and why they are important for disabled people to live an independent life. Independent living is based on a "social/independent living model of disability," rather than a "medical model." The problem lies in the environment, not the individual.

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Some Pros and Cons of Dating When Disabled

Dating as a disabled person comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. From building deeper connections to facing societal misconceptions, this blog post delves into the pros and cons of entering the dating scene when you are disabled.

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The Origin Story of Love Disabled Life

A few years ago, I saw a segment on the TV news magazine show 60 Minutes. In brief, it was about how an advertising campaign finally ended the Columbian civil war. At that moment, a lightbulb went on in my head. It made me think of marketing and advertising and the power of those mediums in a whole new way related to disability. And from there, Love Disabled Life was born.

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