This RI Cross Disability Coalition’s meeting on September 9, at Red, White & Brew in Warwick, focused on the very timely topics of “voting” as well as “Advocating for Change” in our laws. The featured guest speaker was Kevin Nerney, Executive Director of RI Developmental Disabilities Council, who encouraged more than twenty guests to vote, reminding all the next day’s primary election. He also provided a guided tutorial in real time on how to find out where to vote, the candidates, and the issues.
The active group of guests answered Kevin’s questions about the First Amendment, the branches of government, and more. He reviewed the legislative process, showing the Schoolhouse Rock! Segment “I’m Just a Bill” which teaches the process of how a bill becomes a law in the United States. He infused a bit of humor into the presentation for those who remember seeing it a few years ago as well as first-time viewers.
This set the stage for presenting the key issues and the status of the bills. To do this, the group reviewed a handout identifying the legislative bills in the House and Senate. Kevin emphasized the importance of housing, person-centered planning, and the budget, offering anecdotes and examples of what the bills mean to the lives of those impacted by pending legislation.
Because Advocacy is an important issue for the RIDDC and the RICDC, the meeting provided an ideal opportunity to address the idea of testifying at the State House. Not surprisingly, some of the guests were familiar with the issues; some had already participated in the process. From the “How To Do It” details of preparing bullet points that you want to present or a formally written statement, Kevin noted, “sharing your personal story or experience is what matters.” Other practical matters for the group’s consideration were transportation and parking, the committee meeting room temperature, and the amount of time you may be required to be there before you testify – meaning bring water and a snack.
The casual atmosphere supported the informal conversation among participants. Many had shared their recent experiences in advocating at the State House, while others showed interest in how they could participate in proposed legislation that they either favored or opposed.
The group provided positive feedback in their post-event surveys, and the topic of “ABLE Accounts” – saving money to pay for qualified disability expenses – prompted a request for follow-up in future meetings.
