Podcasts about disability rights california

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Moses Nagel reports from the Albany Ethics And Workforce Culture Committee Then, Willie Terry was at the Regional Food Bank site of a mass Thanksgiving Food Distribution. Later on, Blaise Bryant talks with Brian Hollander with Disability Rights California. After that, H Bosh Jr continues his talk with two previously incarcerated individuals. Finally, Lovonia Mallory speaks with Dr. Moya Bailey, an assistant professor in the department of cultures, societies and global studies

Our Blaise Bryant is back with another disability trivia segment. He is joined by Brian Hollander with Disability Rights California.

Brian Hollander with Disability Rights California joins Blaise for a new game of trivia. What did you learn? Share on Facebook @blaisinshows! Rate, review, subscribe, share and support the show at blaisinshows.com. Support Blaisin' Access Podcast by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/blaisin-access-podcast Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/blaisin-access-podcast/05fe724b-5bd2-4c6c-9ad2-abe46e093022Read transcript

In this episode of Walk and Roll Live - Disability Stories, Doug & Addie sit down with Jose Peña from Disability Rights California to explore what it takes to create truly inclusive and empowering workplaces for individuals with disabilities. From understanding reasonable accommodations to fostering cultural change, Jose shares actionable insights and real-world examples to help employers and employees build a more equitable work environment. Whether you're an advocate, employer, or job seeker, this episode offers valuable guidance on breaking down barriers and championing workplace inclusivity. Walk and Roll Live Disability Rights California 

Disability Right California (DRC) and its 350 employees serve the community of over 10 millions individuals in california with developmental, behavioral, as well as physical health disabilities. Andy Imparato shares about the history of DRC, it's connection to federal efforts, and how he was inspired to get involved and ultimately have a career in serving as a leader in advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

As part of the 2024 Developmental Disabilities Conference, Vivian Huan, Senior Policy Attorney of Disability Rights California, presents key findings and recommendations regarding racial disparities in access to services and funding in California for people in the developmental disability system. After investments were made to reduce disparities, they worsened. Huan presents strategies that may work moving forward. Series: "Developmental Disabilities Update" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39741]

As part of the 2024 Developmental Disabilities Conference, Vivian Huan, Senior Policy Attorney of Disability Rights California, presents key findings and recommendations regarding racial disparities in access to services and funding in California for people in the developmental disability system. After investments were made to reduce disparities, they worsened. Huan presents strategies that may work moving forward. Series: "Developmental Disabilities Update" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39741]

As part of the 2024 Developmental Disabilities Conference, Vivian Huan, Senior Policy Attorney of Disability Rights California, presents key findings and recommendations regarding racial disparities in access to services and funding in California for people in the developmental disability system. After investments were made to reduce disparities, they worsened. Huan presents strategies that may work moving forward. Series: "Developmental Disabilities Update" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39741]

Diana Pastora Carson, M.Ed. has been an elementary educator for over 30 years, and co-teaches a Disability & Society course at San Diego State University. She is a consultant and educator on diversity as it relates to disability, and is the author of several articles and books including Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability into Diversity Work in K-12 Schools & Communities, and children's book, Ed Roberts: Champion of Disability Rights, and Beyond Disability Awareness: An Educator's Guide. Diana is known for her powerful keynote presentations and educational workshops related to disability awareness and inclusive teaching practices. Her disability awareness work in schools has earned her statewide PTA recognitions in the areas of advocacy and outreach, as well as her elementary school's designation of Teacher of the Year. In addition to a TEDx Talk and her award-winning podcast, Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters, Diana has been featured in several articles and other podcasts. She served two terms on the Board of Directors of Disability Rights California, and currently serves as a board member of Disability Voices United. Although Diana experiences disability herself, she credits her passion for this work to her brother, Joaquin Carson, who endured years of segregated schooling and subsequent institutionalization. She takes the most pride in knowing that after many years of fighting for his release from an institution, Joaquin now lives a life of self-determination, inclusion and quality, in the community, as her next-door neighbor. Along this journey to inclusion, Diana and Joaquin have become advocates for safe community inclusion, especially for people who experience body dysregulation, and as it relates to healthcare access, and access to "durable accommodations", a term coined by Diana's family.  

  People with mental, emotional and cognitive disabilities face significant limitations in their daily life.  They're considered disabled under the law.  Yet, some people with mental health conditions feel their needs are ignored by those with mobility and other physical disabilities.   And, some people with mental health issues choose not to identify as disabled due the stigma of the category.   We talk to Brian Hollander from Disability Rights California, who identifies himself as someone with mental health challenges.  Hollander gives his perspectives on why there seems to be division in the community and the steps both groups can take to work together.   Natasha Vita More at the AND Festival Salon Also, we talk to “Megan” a community organizer from L. A. about the journey she is on in becoming comfortable with identifying as someone with a mental health disability.   This episode of Pushing Limits is produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton, with editing and voicing by Dominick Trevelham.   Photo Credits: “Hands Over Face” Created by Jose Luis Navarro Copyright- CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 from MyRetrospect.com “How will we decide” by Andy Miah Natasha Vita-More @ANDfestival Salon, Flicker The post Disability Movement Tension Spots – Pushing Limits – March 29, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

A recent report by Disability Rights California reveals widespread neglect and abuse of people in Los Angeles County held under mental health conservatorship. In LA County last year, over 800 people were held in jail or locked in psychiatric units longer than they needed to be. According to Michelle Kotval, senior staff attorney at Disability Rights California, this issue is especially harmful for people placed in LPS (mental health) conservatorships by the County because their right to make decisions about their own lives are taken from them. Read the report here: https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/report/stuck-los-angeles-countys-abuse-and-neglect-of-people-on-mental-health-conservatorships What could have stopped the police from killing of Ryan Gainer, the autistic Black 15-year-old who was fatally shot outside his home by a San Bernardino Sheriff deputy? We present the case to Aisha Novasky, senior staff attorney at Disability Rights California. — Subscribe to this podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1637968343?to=page Get in touch: lawanddisorder@kpfa.org Follow us on socials @LawAndDis: https://twitter.com/LawAndDis; https://www.instagram.com/lawanddis/ The post LA Locks Away People on Mental Health Conservatorships; Plus, Black Autistic Child Killed by Police w/ Disability Rights California appeared first on KPFA.

San Francisco is one of eight counties that will be piloting California's new CARE Courts program ahead of a statewide rollout next year. Beginning next month, people with schizophrenia or psychosis can be referred to the new court and, if they meet certain criteria, receive a court-ordered care plan that can include mental health treatment, housing and medication. Critics warn that the system could violate the civil liberties of people with disabilities and lead to harmful coercive care, but proponents say the measure will assist unhoused people living with severe, untreated mental illness by getting them the attention they need. We'll get into the details and the debate. Guests: Susan Talamantes-Eggman, state Senator representing California's 5th District; co-author of SB 1338, the legislation which established CARE court in California Rafael Mandelman, represents District 8 on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Scott Shafer, senior editor, KQED's California Politics and Government desk and co-host of Political Breakdown Tal Klement, Deputy Public Defender in the Mental Health Unit, San Francisco Public Defender's Office Eric Harris, director of public policy, Disability Rights California

Join us for “Restraint and Seclusion in California Schools: Findings and Recommendations from the 2021-22 School Year Data” with Robert BorrelleRobert Borrelle is a Supervising Attorney at Disability Rights California, California's federally designated Protection & Advocacy Agency. He is part of DRC's Investigations Unit, where he specializes in abuse and neglect investigations in facilities serving youth with disabilities.Support the show

Join us in this empowering episode as we sit down with Eric Harris, Director of Public Policy at Disability Rights California, a remarkable individual who wears two hats: Director of Policy for a prominent disabled rights advocacy organization and a fierce advocate for disabled rights themselves. As someone who lives with a disability, Eric brings a unique perspective to the table, offering insights into the challenges faced by the disabled community and the transformative changes needed in policy and society. In this conversation, we delve into his personal journey, his trailblazing work in shaping inclusive policies, and the ongoing fight for equal opportunities, accessibility, and dignity for all. Get ready to be inspired and informed as we explore the intersections of disability, policy, and activism.

Ann Menasche, a civil rights attorney, discusses the legal complaint she lodged against Disability Rights California earlier this year in response to her being fired from her job of twenty years. Her employer, Disability Rights California, issued a statement in May 2022 that opposed the reversal of Roe vs. Wade while also erasing females completely from the picture by replacing the word “women” in the context of pregnancy and abortion, with “people.” Menasche responded to this listserv statement writing: “So glad DRC came up with a statement in defense of Roe! Thank you! Access to safe, legal abortion is a life and death necessity for women as a biological sex across the board, regardless of race, economic class, gender identity, sexual orientation (even lesbians can be raped) or anything else, and an absolute prerequisite for equal female participation in our society. Of course, the most vulnerable females, especially poor women, women of color, women with disabilities, young girls, unhoused women and girls, women and girls in prison, etc. will suffer the most under draconian anti-abortion laws. Wealthy white women have often managed to get abortions, even before Roe. As a veteran of the feminist struggle for abortion rights that preceded Roe, I never thought it would come to this. Yet, it is good to remember that women won this right primarily through grassroots organizing and peaceful mass protests in the streets, and that is the way we are going to protect it. Thanks again, DRC, for taking a stand!” Menasche lost her employment for this statement and details the entire political wave of wokery within her sector and the fear driving the neoliberal managerial class that makes women participants in the erasure of their own sex class. Get full access to Savage Minds at savageminds.substack.com/subscribe

Ligia Andrade Zúñiga A week from today, Governor Newsom is expected to sign the 2023-2024 California state budget.  In this program, we look at the deals that were struck and their impact on people with disabilities. Then we widen our camera to talk about our yearly budget advocacy and how our community can become more powerful in this and other policy arenas. Eric Harris, the director of Public Policy at Disability Rights California, breaks down how the state has chosen to invest its money for the next fiscal year. Ligia Andrade Zúñiga, a member of the State Independent Living Council and trustee of the San Mateo Union High School District, discusses the budget's problems as well as the stress of constantly advocating for services affecting people with disabilities – in particular women of color. Zúñiga and Harris also bring us valuable tips on how to advocate effectively with policymakers on issues of importance to those with disabilities.  (Scroll down for more information about these two amazing humans.) Funding programs for our community. How to win more and lose less. What individuals can do. It's all coming to your ears on Pushing Limits. ANNOUNCEMENT Disability Housing FAQ workshop What's the difference between a reasonable accommodation and reasonable modification? I've experienced discrimination; what are my options?  Will having an emotional support animal affect my housing?  I need physical changes in my unit because of my disability. Do I have to pay for these modifications?  Discover the answers to these questions and more at our upcoming Disability Housing FAQ Workshop on June 29th, from 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. PST, presented by Disability Rights California, The Center for Independent Living, ECHO Fair Housing, and Bay Area Legal Aid. Disability Rights California has gathered some of their most frequently asked questions, submitted to their Housing Helpdesk from disabled people all across the state of California, and these questions will provide the framework for an engaging workshop on all things fair housing, disability, accessibility, and accommodations! Our Disability Housing FAQ Workshop will be a hybrid event, with options to join in-person at the Ed Roberts Campus at 3075 Adeline Street in Berkeley, California, or virtually via Zoom. To register to attend virtually click here, or by going to https://bit.ly/DisabilityHousingFAQ *Note: presenters cannot give legal adviceASL and CART will be provided. If you have other reasonable accommodation requests, please submit them via our Zoom registration page or reach out to Emma Martin at emartin@centerforindependentliving.org or 510-422-5085. ————————————– Eric Harris Produced and hosted by Jacob Lesner-Buxton. Voiced and edited by Adrienne Lauby Eric Harris Eric Harris was born in Berkeley, California and grew up in Sacramento. He was born with left congenital hip dislocation, which gave him nerve damage in his left leg, right foot and right ankle. He had a number of surgeries growing up.  Mr. Harris played on the sheelchair basketball team from BORP  to win the National Championship game.   As a member of the Under 20 USA Wheelchair Basketball Team he won the international championship.  He's played wheelchair basketball with the Golden State Road Warriors and is one of the founding members of the Sacramento Rollin Kings. While in college, Mr. Harris focused on public policy and worked for United States Representative Barbara Lee (CA) and Sacramento City Council member Allen Warren.  He attended the University of Oregon School of Law and worked at the Democratic National Committee.  He's worked on general policy for the western region and disability policy throughout the country, interned at the American Association for People with Disabilities in Washington, D.C., worked for the California State NAACP.   He started to work at Disability Rights California in 2019. Mr. Harris has done community work with disability leaders, community members and elected officials throughout the country.  He is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and attends Bayside Midtown Church in Sacramento, California. Mr. Harris is a member of the State Independent Living Council as a Governor Newsom appointee, and a board member of the Resources for Independent Living in Sacramento.   Ligia Andrade Zúñiga Ligia Andrade Zuniga, MPA, is a disability rights advocate and leader focused on the empowerment of marginalized and underrepresented communities primarily women of color with disabilities. Being a first-generation Guatemalan American-woman of color, preserving cultural identity, while embracing intersection and interdependence is extremely important to her. Ms Andrade Zuniga attended Notre Dame De Namur University in Belmont California and has worked in local government and nonprofit for over 15 years. In 2009 almost a year after graduating from graduate school Ligia sustained a spinal cord injury which opened the door to the disability community.  She is a volunteer peer supporter through the Spinal Cord Injury Peer Support Program at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center where she rehabilitated. Ms Andrade Zuniga worked for the Silicon Valley Independent Living Center in the deinstitutionalization program where she learned about the Independent Living Movement. Currently, she works as a Sexuality and Disability Educator and Advocate and is an elected trustee and vice president of the Board of Trustees of the San Mateo Union High School District. Ms Andrade Zuniga is highly involved in civic engagement locally primarily influencing policy and regulation around individuals with disabilities. Groups she is affiliated with include; San Mateo County Commission on Disabilities, San Mateo County Public Authority Advisory Committee, San Mateo County Cal Medi Connect Committee, San Mateo County Health Commission, and Center for Independence of Individuals with Disabilities Board of Directors.  Ms Andrade Zunigavalues the visibility of parents with disabilities and has made sure parents with disabilities are visible and taken into consideration through the school experience with their children.   The post CA Budget – Disability Advocacy & Results – Pushing Limits – June 23, 2023 appeared first on KPFA.

Multiple civil rights and disability groups are challenging Governor Newsom's CARE Courts measure, which would force some folks with mental health and substance abuse issues into facilities for treatment. We speak with Sarah Gregory, Senior Attorney at Disability Rights California, along with Nubyaan Scott, Staff Attorney in the Civil Rights Practice Group at Disability Rights California. Check out Disability Rights California's website: https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/ —- Subscribe to this podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1637968343?to=page Get in touch: lawanddisorder@kpfa.org Follow us on socials @LawAndDis: https://twitter.com/LawAndDis; https://www.instagram.com/lawanddis/ The post Newsom's CARE Court's constitutionality challenged by advocacy orgs w/ Disability Rights CA appeared first on KPFA.

Hello from rental hell! This week, Tammy is joined by two friends of the pod who work in housing: Ritti Singh, a tenant organizer in Rochester for Housing Justice for All (and a TTSG Discord leader), and Navneet Grewal, a longtime attorney currently working for Disability Rights California. [5:30] Ritti breaks down the role of a housing organizer, particularly in a majority-tenant city, and Navneet explains her role as a lawyer supporting on-the-ground groups. We discuss the momentum against the commodification of shelter over the past decade, plus organizing successes at the state and local levels regarding rent stabilization, funding for affordable housing, and tenant protections. [34:02] Both guests emphasize the need to diversify the types of housing that exist outside of the private market. We also discuss the various strategies needed to to get out of this crisis—from robust tenant protections to social housing, coops, community land trusts, and tenant purchases of property. What are the connections between housing activism and the environmental justice movement? What if everyone who lives in a place, not just homeowners, could decide what happens to their homes?[41:10] Ritti and Navneet also say what they make of NIMBY-vs.-YIMBY activist fights and the horrific policies being implemented against our homeless neighbors (CARE Court in California and Eric Adams's increased use of forced institutionalization in NYC). How should we address this aspect of the housing crisis? (Hint: Definitely not like that!) Get involved in the fight in New York! If you want to hear more, we've previously talked housing with Darrell Owens, on the fight to end single-family zoning; Paul Williams, on social housing; and Jia Tolentino, on the nightmarish rental market in NYC. We also asked Mike Davis about housing back in 2020, inspired by input from Navneet (who wrote about Mike just before he died).Thanks for listening! Subscribe on Patreon or Substack to join our Discord and participate in our ongoing chats about housing, organizing, and more. As always, you can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, and stay in touch via email at timetosaygoodbyepod@gmail.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit goodbye.substack.com/subscribe

Nick Feldman arrested in a 2009 protest with a sign “Feel the Power of the Disability Vote.”. Photo by Steve Rhodes, courtesy of Disability Rights California and UDWA   The weather's getting colder, November's drawing near, and you know by your full mailbox the SPOOOOOOOOKY season is here!   Today, the Pushing Limits crew sketches some state and local issues with a LEETLE Federal spice, and tell you which measures are naughty and which nice. Our web site has goodies to make you more wise, and inoculate you against tricks and the evil surprise.         Konstantine Anthony Konstantine Anthony, Chair of the California Democratic Party's Disabilities Caucus, is soon to be Mayor of Berbank and the first openly autistic mayor in the US. He'll walk us through state propositions of interest to people with disabilities. Eddie Ytuarte will talk about local housing measures in Alameda County. Sheela Gunn-Cushman hosts, and will tell you why you are seeing one Federal Senate seat TWICE on your ballot, and why you may not be in the district you thought you were in. (Yes, the lines HAVE moved!) Mark Romoser and Josh Elwood contributed production help to this program.         Resources Affordable Housing on East Bay Ballots Recommendations from East Bay Housing Organizations Voter Guide has got you covered. ‌ Over on their YouTube channel, you can watch their Endorsed Ballot Measures Forum as well as candidate forums with candidates for Alameda County District 3 Supervisor and Oakland Mayor. Check out their Elections Hub for voter information and information about how to get involved. Say yes to affordable housing: YES Berkeley Measure L YES Berkeley Measure M YES Berkeley Measure N YES Oakland Measure Q YES Oakland Measure U YES Oakland Measure V Oakland Ballot Measures Measure Q – Article 34 Authorization.  Preapproves the construction or acquisition of 13,000 affordable homes. Measure U – Infrastructure Bond. An $850M infrastructure bond which includes $350M for affordable housing. Measure V – Just Cause Expansion.  Further extends eviction protections to residents of RVs, school aged children and teachers, and more. Berkeley Ballot Measures Measure L – Infrastructure Bond.  A $650 million dollar bond, which includes $200 million for affordable housing. Measure M – Vacancy Tax. Taxes property owners who keep non-exempt homes vacant for more than six months in a year. Measure N – Article 34 Authorization.  Preapproves the construction or acquisition of 3,000 low-rent homes. How to Help Commit just thirty minutes this month or ten hours a week. 1)  Table for Oakland's Measure U.  Hosted by Safe Street Advocates at the Grand Lake Farmer's Market on Saturdays and the Temescal Farmers Market on Sundays. Shifts are 9 AM–2 PM.  Sign Up to Table 2) Lawn Sign for Oakland Measure U.  Don't have any time, but still want to help out? Email angelina@ebho.org to have a free lawn sign for Measure U delivered to your doorstep. 3)   Canvass for Oakland Measures Q & V.  Hosted by Care 4 Community Action. Shifts are held at 10 AM on Saturdays and Sundays and 5:30 PM on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.  Sign Up to Canvass 4)  Phone Bank for Berkeley Measure L.  Co-hosted by EBHO on Thursdays from 6-8 PM at Campaign HQ, 2026 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley.  Email Angelina at angelina@ebho.org to sign up! 5)   Volunteer for Measure M.   The Measure M campaign is offering several ways to get involved including canvassing, voter outreach, and delivering yard signs.  Sign Up to Volunteer Call & Text for Measure M  Every Wednesday Night for calls and texting at 2025 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley.  More Information. Hear from the Candidates Watch the Alameda County District 3 Forum Watch the Oakland Mayoral Forum What do your candidates say about affordable housing?  Click here to read what candidates for Alameda County District 3 Supervisor, Oakland Mayor, Oakland City Council, Berkeley City Council, San Leandro Mayor, and San Leandro City Council give as their positions on housing and homelessness.   Urban Habitat Voters Guide This guide overlaps with some of the advice above, as you would imagine, but it covers other issues and races as well.  It even has a recommendation for Healdsburg voters way up in the North Bay. How Pete's Voting Community Activist Pete Woiwode: “How Pete's Voting” Pete has opinions on a ton of local ballot measures and city council races and much, much more.   You may not agree with him on everything but his frank, concise voting guide is well worth some attention. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ The post Vote for Your LIfe -Pushing Limits – October 21, 2022 appeared first on KPFA.

Society has taught us, intentionally or not, that we should be “normal.” That our value is dependent on our contributions to the world around us. This perspective often makes the term “disability” alienating and disempowering. Join Holly and Michael as they talk with Andy Imparato, CEO of Disability Rights California. They discuss the importance of having a positive disability identity. Also, Holly speaks about her disability identity for the first time.

20220513-2 2nd General Session Day 2 2022 Conference & Convention Navigating the Future Together 2nd General Session - Sarah Harris, First Vice-President, Fresno, Ca Presiding Welcome Dreaming Big, A new World for People with Disabilities o Andy, Imparato, Executive Director, Disability Rights California, Sacramento, Ca Participants discussed vision for the disability community in California and specifically for Disability Rights California, with an emphasis on concerns impacting people with vision loss. A Blind Man's Perspective on the Future of Life with Vision Loss o Joe Xavier, Director, Department of Rehabilitation, Sacramento, Ca The “new normal” is upon us. How can people with vision loss leverage their adaptability skills in it? Participants heard Mr. Xavier's perspective on this and so much more. Target Practice: Determining Which Transportation Issues are Local, which are Federal, and How to Hit Where You're Aiming o Ron Brooks, CEO and Founder of Accessible Avenue, Phoenix, AZ Participants joined Ron Brooks on a ride that is sure to be within your pick-up window and won't keep you on longer than 90 minutes. By the time attendees reached their destination, attendees were informed, entertained, and inspired. Find out more at https://acb-events.pinecast.co

Deborah is an education attorney in the San Francisco Bay Area currently representing families and students against school districts throughout Northern California. She is extremely passionate about her work and the rights of children with disabilities and children who are disproportionally affected by the failures of public schools. Deborah is an active member of the educational community and works with parents, teachers, administrators, service providers and local organizations to support the needs of vulnerable youth.Deborah has spent her entire legal career working on behalf of children. As a law student she worked as a legal intern and special education advocate for Disability Rights California and Bay Area Legal Aide, then quickly became the managing associate at a special education law firm in the District of Columbia where she represented low-income families in court appointed special education cases. Prior to relocating back to the Bay Area, Deborah co-founded The School Justice Project (“SJP”), a legal services and advocacy organization serving older students with special education needs who are involved in Washington DC's justice system. In 2013 Deborah started her own practice in Berkeley, California, Jacobson Education Law (“JEL”). In addition to her private practice, Deborah has worked as both co-counsel and of counsel for Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (“DREDF”), and she currently serves as Of Counsel for The East Bay Community Law Center in their Education Justice Clinic. Deborah has effectively and compassionately represented hundreds of clients in special education matters. She is a frequent presenter at state and national conferences and provides trainings to local advocacy and parent groups.Further Resources and Deborah's Picks: More on the class action lawsuit against Berkeley Unified School District Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund The School Justice Project East Bay Community Law Center The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Rising Strong by Brene Brown

Join Michael and Holly as they talk with Andy Imparato, Executive Director of Disability Rights California. Andy discusses healthcare resource rationing in the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, they go over ideas on how to address disparities in their communities.   For the resources and links mentioned in this episode, please visit us at disabilitygarrison.org.

Something needs to be done. Six weeks after Gov. Newsom unveiled a far-reaching effort to push more people into court-ordered treatment for severe mental illness and addiction; homeless advocates are calling it legally misguided and immoral as the proposal's first public hearing at the state Capitol has been delayed. Newsom touted the CARE Court framework last month as an innovative strategy to guide an estimated 7,000 to 12,000 people into housing and much-needed treatment. Under the proposal, family members, behavioral health care providers and first responders, among others, could petition a civil judge to initiate a CARE plan for eligible individuals who lack medical decision-making capacity. More than three dozen organizations and individuals, including the American Civil Liberties Union, Disability Rights California and the Western Center on Law and Poverty, signed an April 12 opposition letter raising serious concerns with Assembly Bill 2830, one of two nearly identical measures moving through the Legislature to implement Newsom's Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment Court. The groups often have significant sway among liberal legislative Democrats, the kind of influence that could hinder Newsom's hopes for a new law to be in place by July 1. In their 14-page letter, the advocates blasted the proposal as involuntary and coercive treatment that would strip individuals of their personal liberties and "perpetuate institutional racism and worsen health disparities." They said CARE Court "flies in the face of any evidence-based approach to ending homelessness" because it prioritizes mental health services — not housing — as the initial step toward recovery, which they said would deviate from California's "housing first" principles. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Something needs to be done. Six weeks after Gov. Newsom unveiled a far-reaching effort to push more people into court-ordered treatment for severe mental illness and addiction; homeless advocates are calling it legally misguided and immoral as the proposal's first public hearing at the state Capitol has been delayed. Newsom touted the CARE Court framework last month as an innovative strategy to guide an estimated 7,000 to 12,000 people into housing and much-needed treatment. Under the proposal, family members, behavioral health care providers and first responders, among others, could petition a civil judge to initiate a CARE plan for eligible individuals who lack medical decision-making capacity. More than three dozen organizations and individuals, including the American Civil Liberties Union, Disability Rights California and the Western Center on Law and Poverty, signed an April 12 opposition letter raising serious concerns with Assembly Bill 2830, one of two nearly identical measures moving through the Legislature to implement Newsom's Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment Court. The groups often have significant sway among liberal legislative Democrats, the kind of influence that could hinder Newsom's hopes for a new law to be in place by July 1. In their 14-page letter, the advocates blasted the proposal as involuntary and coercive treatment that would strip individuals of their personal liberties and "perpetuate institutional racism and worsen health disparities." They said CARE Court "flies in the face of any evidence-based approach to ending homelessness" because it prioritizes mental health services — not housing — as the initial step toward recovery, which they said would deviate from California's "housing first" principles. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this Minisode: The one where we talk about solitary confinement, Ra is joined by season 1 co-host Lee, and Pamila Lew, an attorney in the Investigations Unit at Disability Rights California. Pamila shares the history of solitary confinement, the different ways state facilities refer to it, and the many different communities of folks who are placed in it and have to experience the torturous and negative impacts of solitary confinement. To access the transcript for this episode visit, www.InitiateJustice.org/Podcast --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/abolitionisforeverybody/support

Joyce is honored to have as her guest, Andy Imparato, Executive Director, of Disability Rights California (DRC). DRC is the federally funded legal services agency that serves Californians with all disabilities across the age spectrum. Among the topics Mr. Imparato will discuss during the show, are the services offered by this agency, and how he has improved the outreach of those services since becoming Executive Director in February 2020.

Joyce is honored to have as her guest, Andy Imparato, Executive Director, of Disability Rights California (DRC). DRC is the federally funded legal services agency that serves Californians with all disabilities across the age spectrum. Among the topics Mr. Imparato will discuss during the show, are the services offered by this agency, and how he has improved the outreach of those services since becoming Executive Director in February 2020.

Andy Imparato's Bio In this episode, Diana chats with Andy Imparato, Executive Director of Disability Rights California, about educational equity and civil rights. During this robust conversation, Andy reflects the lesson he's learned that civil rights laws do not enforce themselves, and that parents and guardians are put in the position to be "private attorney generals" when educated about their children's rights. He advocates for teacher training for equitable, modern classrooms. He also asks administrators to operate from the core values that brought them into education in the first place. He encourages disabled students seek out people who view their disability as normal, and as an asset. Andy passionately shares the belief that "inequality is not inevitable" and with some imagination, coordination, and commitment, everyone in our communities can thrive. Links Mentioned Disability Rights California Catherine Lhamon, Assistant Secretary, Office of Civil Rights, Department of Education Taryn Williams, Assistant Secretary, Office of Disability Employment Policy Stay Connected with Diana Diana's Website Free Resource - 5 Keys to Going Beyond Awareness Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability into Diversity in K-12 Schools & Communities - Diana's Book Ed Roberts: Champion of Disability Rights - Diana's Children's Book "Beyond Awareness" Digital Course Diana's TEDx Talk Beyond Awareness Facebook Page Diana on Instagram Beyond Awareness Tote Bag Beyond Awareness Pullover Hoodie Beyond Awareness Raglan Baseball T-Shirt Credits and Image Description Intro and outro music courtesy of Emmanuel Castro. Podcast cover photo by Rachel Schlesinger Photography. Podcast cover image description: Black and white photograph of Diana, a Spanish-American woman with long, wavy, brown hair. She is wearing a flowy, white blouse and smiles at camera as she leans against wooden building. Photo is colorfully framed with gold and orange rays of seeming sunshine on top half, and with solid sage green color on bottom half. Text reads "Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters, Diana Pastora Carson, M.Ed." Johnson Fellows Program https://www.sandiego.edu/soles/learning-and-teaching/johnson-education-fellows.php Teacher Leaders for Inclusion https://www.lead4inclusion.com/ Teachers for Inclusion Learning about Disability Culture https://www.facebook.com/groups/201578786622476

NOTE: Hi, everyone! We've stepped away from the podcast for a short break, but we'll be back soon with great new content. Meantime, please enjoy listening to some of our most popular episodes from the archive! Today's guest is Diana Pastora Carson, a self-described sibling advocate and a big fan of her brother, Joaquin, who spent 15 years of his life in an institution. Joaquin's family fought for three years to bring him home, and he fully supports and endorses the way Diana shares their family story.  Diana has been an elementary educator for over 30 years in both general and special education. A lecturer for a Disability and Society course through San Diego State University, Diana also teaches other disability and inclusion courses through SDSU and a local community college. She's a public speaker, inclusion visionary, and community activist who has also done a TEDtalk. With two terms on the board of Disability Rights California, she currently serves on the board of directors for Disability Voices United. Last year, she helped produce a series for Ability magazine in which she interviewed 50 experts and activists in the field of disability. Diana is the author of Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability Into Diversity Work in K-12 Schools & Communities and the children's book, Ed Roberts: CHAMPION of Disability Rights.  In addition to starting her own podcast soon, Diana's upcoming endeavors include launching an online course about disability awareness through a social justice lens. Join us for a closer look at disability awareness and how inclusion in the classroom can benefit every student. Show Highlights: How inclusivity in education has changed--and what it means today A specific example of how Diana used a Marc Anthony song to help a non-speaking student engage with his classmates and the curriculum in her classroom Why a general education setting is best for most children with disabilities, even if their work output is very different How life quality is impacted by the early years of social and emotional opportunities Diana's advice about the best way for teachers, administrators, and parents to establish more inclusion in schools What it takes to change people's hearts and minds about inclusion and disability awareness Steps to bring disability awareness and justice Connect with Diana! Visit her website Download Diana's FREE ebook: The Five Keys to Going Beyond Awareness  Links/Resources: Thank you for listening! Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns: Facebook Instagram Twitter IEP website This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.

Hosts: Ellinor Arzbaecher and Michael Wiafe.Guests: Natalia Arzbaecher and Zofia TrexlerProduction and Marketing: Jarrett Ramones, Tim Haydock, Ellinor Arzbaecher, and Kody Stoebig.In 2018, the CDC reported that 26 percent (one in 4) of adults in the United States have some type of disability. In 2019 the US census found that over three million children in the United States had a disability in 2019, up since 2008. With the highest rate of childhood disability belonging to American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN), followed by children of more than one race and Black children. And guess what?? Today's a Surprise Sibling Episode as we are joined by Ellie's sister Natalia! Who has lived with Diabetes since she was 7 years old.Also joining us is Zofia Trexler who work with Disability Rights California as a Peer Self Advocacy Trainer, specifically working and creating content for Transitional Age Youth with mental health disabilities.We'd Love to Hear from You! Clink the link below to fill out a quick survey and let us know what you think!https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/QLVPBCTFollow us on social @policywisepod on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook! And don't forget to subscribe and rate us on iTunes. See you next time on PolicyWise!

Our country has entered a new era, in which disabilities are increasingly viewed as superpowers and informed employers recognize them as the keys to unlocking employee performance. But obstacles remain, especially at the intersection of race, poverty, and disability. Join Andy Imparato, executive director of Disability Rights California, and Janice Ta, senior counsel at Perkins Coie, as they discuss their own disability journeys and provide a look toward the future of disability law in the United States.

Today's guest is Diana Pastora Carson, a self-described sibling advocate and a big fan of her brother, Joaquin, who spent 15 years of his life in an institution. Joaquin's family fought for three years to bring him home, and he fully supports and endorses the way Diana shares their family story.  Diana has been an elementary educator for over 30 years in both general and special education. A lecturer for a Disability and Society course through San Diego State University, Diana also teaches other disability and inclusion courses through SDSU and a local community college. She's a public speaker, inclusion visionary, and community activist who has also done a TEDtalk. With two terms on the board of Disability Rights California, she currently serves on the board of directors for Disability Voices United. Last year, she helped produce a series for Ability magazine in which she interviewed 50 experts and activists in the field of disability. Diana is the author of Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability Into Diversity Work in K-12 Schools & Communities and the children's book, Ed Roberts: Father of Disability Rights.  In addition to starting her own podcast soon, Diana's upcoming endeavors include launching an online course about disability awareness through a social justice lens. Join us for a closer look at disability awareness and how inclusion in the classroom can benefit every student. Show Highlights: How inclusivity in education has changed--and what it means today A specific example of how Diana used a Marc Anthony song to help a non-speaking student engage with his classmates and the curriculum in her classroom Why a general education setting is best for most children with disabilities, even if their work output is very different How life quality is impacted by the early years of social and emotional opportunities Diana's advice about the best way for teachers, administrators, and parents to establish more inclusion in schools What it takes to change people's hearts and minds about inclusion and disability awareness Steps to bring disability awareness and justice Connect with Diana! Visit her website Download Diana's FREE ebook: The Five Keys to Going Beyond Awareness  Links/Resources: Thank you for listening! Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns: Facebook Instagram Twitter IEP website This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.  

Hector Ramirez, a disability rights advocate serving on the board of directors for Disability Rights California and with the National Disability Rights Network, joins the program to share his perspective about the benefits of being an ABLE account owner. 

Hector Ramirez, a disability rights advocate serving on the board of directors for Disability Rights California and with the National Disability Rights Network, joins the program to share his perspective about the benefits of being an ABLE account owner. 

Since 1938, employers in California have been able to apply for a certificate that allows them to pay employees with disabilities less than minimum wage - in some cases as little as $2 an hour. Some say the program, called 14(c), creates opportunities for people who otherwise could not find employment. Others say it is exploitative, and a state bill has been introduced to end the practice. To learn more, Valley Edition host Kathleen Schock spoke with Wesley Witherspoon, chair of the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, Vivian Haun, senior attorney with Disability Rights California, John Bolle, executive director of VistAbility and Shawn Kennemer, executive director of Bakersfield ARC.

Andy Imparato, Executive Director of Disability Rights California, shares his work on disability issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to his California work, Andy is a member of the Biden-Harris Administration COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force, and he discusses his national work to include disability in diversity conversations.  Episode transcripts can be found at http://disabilityhealth.jhu.edu/included/ Learn more about Disability Rights California: https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/   Follow Andy on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AndyDRC  

 Andy Imparato began work in February as the Executive Director of Disability Rights California (DRC) after a high impact career in Washington, DC in disability advocacy and policy. DRC is the federally funded legal services agency that serves Californians with all disabilities across the age spectrum.  While in DC, Imparato served as the Disability Policy Director for Chairman Tom Harkin on the US Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions and as President and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities, among other roles.  Since joining DRC, Imparato has worked in coalition to protect vital programs and services for people with disabilities and older adults and to prevent discrimination on the basis of disability and age as the State develops crisis care guidelines for rationing ventilators and other limited resources in response to the pandemic.  He grew up in Southern California and is a graduate of Stanford Law School.  His perspective is informed by his lived experience with bipolar disorder. 

Session 1: Friday June 19, 1 PM to 4 PM 1 PM Call to order, Judy Wilkinson, CCB President presiding. 1:05 PM Announcements and preliminary matters. Pledge of Allegiance 1:15 PM Virtual Conference and Convention Etiquette, Rob Turner, Member, CCB Board of Directors. 1:20 PM Adoption of Conference and Convention Rules, Gabe Griffith, CCB First Vice President. 1:30 PM "Meeting the Unmet Need for Services to Seniors with Vision Loss", Panel Moderator, Jeff Thom, CCB Immediate Past President. Panelists: Joe Xavier, Director, Department of Rehabilitation, Sacramento, CA; Shari Roeseler, Executive Director, Sacramento Society for the Blind, Sacramento, CA; Shellena Heber, Executive Director, Valley Center for the Blind, Fresno, CA; Claire M. Ramsey, Senior Staff Attorney, Justice in Aging, Berkeley, CA. The panel will discuss various issues surrounding trends in services to seniors, with emphasis on ways of filling the ever-expanding gap in services available to seniors who are blind or have low vision. 2:15 PM "Voting Matters", Paul R. Spenser, Staff Attorney, Disability Rights California, Voting Rights Unit, San Diego, CA. Mr. Spenser will discuss the importance of exercising our right to vote privately and independently as well as the challenges and opportunities for the November election, in light of the COVID-19 virus pandemic. On behalf of Disability Rights California, Mr. Spenser will seek feedback on the accessibility of the Remote Accessible Vote-by-Mail process, the new accessible voting machines in use statewide, and electronic poll books. 2:45 PM "An Update on Legal Cases Impacting People who are Blind or Have Low Vision", Sean Betouliere, Staff Attorney, Disability Rights Advocates, Berkeley, CA. Disability Rights Advocates, one of the nation's leading legal civil rights advocacy organizations for people with disabilities, has worked closely with the California Council of the Blind for more than two decades. Mr. Betouliere will provide an update on some of the important legal work being done on behalf of people who are blind or have low vision. 3:15 PM First Reading of Bylaws Amendments, Sarah Harris and David Jackson, Co-Chairs, CCB Bylaws Committee. 3:40 PM Credentials and Nominating Reports, Frank Welte, Chair, CCB Credentials and Nominating Committees. 4 PM Final Announcements, Judy Wilkinson, CCB President.

MentionsALinkerCMT Awareness MonthWebsite/Blog, Twitter, & Instagram HandleFacebook, @gayleweenie on InstagramName *Lisa WeinerDisorder InfoWhat is your disorder? *Charcot-Marie-Tooth diseaseHow To Vote By Mail In California: 2020 General Election: August 25, 2020 (full article detailed below).https://patch.com/california/across-ca/how-vote-mail-california-2020-general-election“Once your mailed-in ballot is completed, it can be inserted into the provided envelope and sent to your local county elections office.You can also return your ballot by:Bringing it in-person to any nearby polling place or elections office before 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 3.Dropping it into one of your county's ballot drop boxes before 8 p.m. on Election Day.Authorizing someone else to return the ballot on your behalf. (If you do this, you must fill out the authorization form on the back of the ballot envelope you receive.)If you are not yet registered to vote, you can register online here, up until October 19. California also offers same-day registration, which can be done on Election Day at your local polling place.If you need to change your address to vote by mail, you can:Write to your local county elections officialFill out this online application, print, sign, and date it, and then mail it to your county elections office. (Also available in Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Tagalog, Thai, and Vietnamese)Or, fill out the application printed on the voter information guide, which is mailed to every voter by their county elections office before the electionVisit the California Secretary of State's website for more information about how to vote in this fall's General Election.”CA 2020 Election: Voting In Person; What To Know: September 30, 2020 (click link below for full article)https://patch.com/california/across-ca/ca-2020-election-voting-person-what-knowMain points:*Governor Gavin Newsom made an executive order to mail absentee ballots to every registered voter in California.Though everyone will get a ballot in the mail, some will inevitably need to visit a polling place for many reasons — for lost or damaged ballots or for language or disability assistance. Some will need to register last minute on Election Day, which state law allows at polling sites.In person voting: begins as early as October 31 and ends on election day, Tuesday, November 3, at 8 PM. There will be fewer polling places per county than usual, so as to limit spiraling lines/congestion and mitigate spread of COVID-19. Also, due to pandemic, many usual polling locations i.e., retirement homes, community centers and churches are closed.Find your polling place by using this form on the California Secretary of State's website. California Secretary of State, Elections Division, 1500 11th St., 5th Floor, Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (916) 657-2166, (800) 345-VOTE (8683), (800) 833-8683 (TTY/TDD) Website: www.sos.ca.gov/elections/Register to vote or check if your registration status is active here.If voting in person, you should bring your mailed ballot with you to your nearest polling place. Since all CA voters were mailed ballots this year, this is proof that you didn't already mail your ballot and vote twice.However, if you forget to bring your ballot to polling place, or it became lost in the mail, you may need to vote provisionally. This means that your vote may be subject to a screening. Officials may want to verify your registration status or confirm that it wasn't already mailed. With these extra steps, a vote may not be counted on Nov. 3, but it will eventually.Also, voters should arrive with the proper COVID-19 protective gear. Poll workers are instructed to keep their distance and wear masks. They will provide face coverings to voters who need them.Voting with a Disability: Federal law requires that people with disabilities have access to vote on Election Day.Federal law requires at least one accessible voting system in every in-person voting center. However, it's best to connect with your local election officials to confirm an accessible polling location in your area.If your assigned polling location is not accessible, you have the right to be reassigned to an accessible polling place or to be provided an alternative method of voting.If you encounter a barrier when you arrive, talk with a poll worker or election judge present to make accommodations.A person has the right to ask to vote curbside, in a car/vehicle if the polling place is not accessible.A person has the right to have a friend, family member, or polling staff help them to vote. The Voting Rights Act of 1964 states that any voter requiring assistance to vote because of a disability will have the ability to bring a person of their choice to assist them in casting their ballot. Though polling staff should be trained in accessible voting, that may not be reality at your polling location.A person also has the right to refuse help with voting if they don't need it.Other voting resources: For general and accurate voting information: https://vote.gov/ and https://www.healthyvoting.org/You can track your ballot on California's ballot tracker: https://california.ballottrax.net/voter/American Association of People with Disabilities; https://www.aapd.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/State-Voting-Guide-California.pdf (this is a thorough guide of voting resources including ones detailed below).To request remote accessible vote by mail, need to request by October 27. https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voting-resources/remote-accessible-vote-mailNational Association of the Deaf (NAD); American sign language (ASL) voting hotline: 301-818-VOTE or 301-818-8683; https://www.nad.org/asl-voter-hotline/National Federation of the Blind (NFB): they have voting information you can download in Word, braille, Word in Spanish, braille in Spanish, and a specific guide for young people, also in braille. They also have voter guide videos in English and Spanish. https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-access/national-center-nonvisual-election-3.Self advocates becoming empowered for voting and guardianship. Website includes informative videos on how to deal with potential voting problems at polling location. https://www.sabeusa.org/govoter/voting-info/voting-and-guardianship/.Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN): A Self-Advocate's Guide to Voting in the U.S. https://autisticadvocacy.org/policy/toolkits/voting/California easy voter guide; https://easyvoterguide.org/Voter's Edge California: https://votersedge.org/caDisability Vote California: https://disabilityvoteca.org/Disability Rights California: for voting publications https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/resources/voting. Disability Rights California: 1831 K Street, Sacramento, CA 95811; Phone: 916-504-5800, 800-719-5798 (TTY), 800-776-5746 (Toll Free); info@disabilityrightsca.org; www.disabilityrightsca.org/Election protection hotline: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683); https://866ourvote.org/The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), recently sat down with Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey, about accessible voting and what he's doing in Congress to make voting more accessible for individuals living with disabilities. Click here to watch video: https://youtu.be/9e4w6bc5lkg . And, link for MDA‘s Advocacy Institute on accessible voting: https://strongly.mda.org/know-your-voting-rights-on-election-day-2020/.National conference on state legislators: voting info by state and how to restore voting right after a felony conviction. In 2016, California passed legislation allowing those in county jails to vote while incarcerated, but not those in state or federal prison. https://www.ncsl.org/research/elections-and-campaigns/felon-voting-rights.aspx.Attachments areaPreview YouTube video MDA Advocacy Institute Session 4: Accessible VotingMDA Advocacy Institute Session 4: Accessible VotingAt what age did your disorder become a daily issue? *29Who were you before your illness became debilitating? *I was a happy, healthy, young adult, recently moved in with my then-boyfriend, working full-time at a healthcare consulting company. Also, I had recently applied to masters public health program.(MPH) programs though was rejected from all 3 programs, where I applied. Though disappointed, I was still optimistic, and certain I'd find another way for career advancement or development.What would you do if you were not dealing with your disorder and/or disability? *Writing more, dancing, graduate school, traveling, volunteering in person, socializing a lot more with friends and family, having children (though can't anymore at age 49)... I did want to be a mother/have children.What would you like people to know about your daily life? *This is probably TMI, too much information but here's my answer:-): My daily life varies tremendously, depending on previous days activities, sleep, and the priorities to accomplish for the day. I frequently feel like a young person in an older person's body. Therefore, everyday tasks/activities often take longer for me, and utilize spoons, like taking a bath, getting dressed, putting shoes and braces on, etc. I often arrange MD or other health-related appointments, and sometimes transportation. I manage a multitude of healthcare paperwork, and receipts for medical deductions. Also, I usually stretch and do some movement each day. And like most people, I check and answer email, as well as read, research, shop and/or connect online. Though admittedly, I tend to find social media overwhelming and fatiguing, So, social media is usually my last priority. I'm definitely open to suggestions for mitigating social media fatigue. Typically, I prefer to text, email, call, FaceTime or zoom with close friends and family. Additionally, a couple of days a week I play mah-jongg with friends, and a couple of days a week I go to the local Peninsula Jewish Community Center (PJCC) for Pilates exercise or community events/activities, pre-COVID-19. I love to write, and free-write mostly for myself. I especially like writing personal essays and articles. I've written an article on caring for hands with CMT published on cmtausa.org, and CMTA's spring 2020 magazine. Despite hand challenges, I enjoy various arts and crafts. Before COVID-19, attended a few free adult arts and crafts classes/workshops. I've participated in a variety of volunteer projects over the years including, tutoring primary school-age kids, reading stories to preschoolers, participating in various consumer/market research studies and usability focus groups. I've organized and participated in many CMTA fundraising efforts, and in 2019, was a top individual fundraiser of all the annual CMTA walks across the country. Our annual SF/Bay Area September walk for CMT, usually located in Palo Alto, California, won't be taking place this year due to COVID-19. However, we will still fundraise online, and friends and family do their own walks. Last year, with the recommendation of San Mateo‘s Center For Independence and Disabled, Assistive Technology Coordinator, I worked with a local private high school for their Project Invent program. Along with other high schools across the country, each student group developed their technology device innovation for someone in the disabled community. Students interviewed and videotaped me for a couple of hours, as I told my story living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Then, I corresponded with their teacher via emails, as well as a couple Zoom calls with teacher and students. They developed a technology called Ruby, to automatically tie shoelaces through a click of the heel and/or handheld device/remote control. Because of COVID-19, students didn't have an opportunity to work with me after the prototype complete and test it. But, I saw a 3-D model they developed on the computer, during the virtual Project Invent Demo Day presentation. There were nine student teams. They had five judges from big tech companies around the country (i.e. Amazon) as well as the founder of Project Invent. Team Ruby were one of three runner up teams, winning a $500 prize to further test their product and try and bring to the marketplace. It was amazing seeing these brilliant and innovative kids! It was truly an honor to participate. Eventually, assuming we're able to be together in groups again, goal is to meet with high school student team, to test the prototype. The following link explains and shows a 3-D model of project: https://www.csus.org/news-detail?pk=1102892What would make living and moving in the world easier for you? *Packaging not so difficult to open on everyday items! I have heard you say on this podcast, that Uber and Lyft should offer reduced prices for disabled customers. I would broaden that to other company services, as well as movie theaters, live theater productions, and concerts, and sporting events. If had more energy, I'd like to aggressively advocate for increased opportunities for low-income housing, especially for young adults to middle-age, with physical disabilities, and include such offerings as rehabilitation pool, group activities, etc. One other thing is new innovations/technology for mobility...ways to be more mobile and active. Have you heard of the Alinker, https://www.thealinker.com/? It's not right for everyone, but a fabulous mobility aid developed by an engineer in the Netherlands.. It's somewhat pricey, and not covered by Medicare or most insurance plans. However, it's extremely well-made, and I'd love to have one

Khateebah Dr. Altaf Saadi delivers a beautiful khutbah on "The Transformative Power of Gratitude" for The Women's Mosque of America's 50th jumma'a on February 22nd, 2019. In her khutbah, Dr. Saadi explores the deeper meanings of the famous repeated verse in Surah Rahman, "So which of your Lord's favors will you deny?" as well as two poems by the famous Persian poet Hafiz. Through her perspective as a neurologist, Dr. Saadi also shares how the practice of gratitude can benefit us by transforming our thought process over time, and how the emotion of gratitude can compel us into more generous behavior with one another. She ends with a helpful explanation on the differences between Shi'a and Sunni prayer. Bio: Dr. Altaf Saadi is a neurologist, Clinical Instructor of Medicine, and fellow at the National Clinician Scholars Program at the University of California, Los Angeles, a fellowship program focused on training physician-leaders to address health inequities through scholarship and action. She completed her neurology training at the Harvard Partners Neurology Program at Massachusetts General and Brigham and Women's Hospitals in Boston, where she also served as chief resident. During her residency, Dr. Saadi's interest in health equity led her to work in resource-limited settings in Zambia, Tanzania, the Navajo Nation, with Boston Healthcare for the Homeless, and the Doctors Without Borders telemedicine program. She is an expert volunteer and asylum evaluator for the Physicians for Humans Asylum network, having conducted medical and psychological evaluations for individuals seeking asylum, both in the community and in immigration detention centers. She has also assessed the medical conditions of confinement in immigration detention at facilities in Texas and California, including with Human Rights First and Disability Rights California. Her research and advocacy focus on health inequities among racial/ethnic minority and immigrant communities, identifying policy and community-based solutions to address these inequities, and enhancing diversity within the medical workforce. Most recently, Dr. Saadi's work has focused on understanding how health care facilities can ensure that all patients feel safe when accessing health care regardless of their immigration status, and exploring the concept of “sanctuary” and “safe spaces” in the clinical setting. Her academic work and commentary has been published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, The British Medical Journal, the American Medical Association Journal of Ethics, Neurology, among others. She is a graduate of Yale College and Harvard Medical School, where she graduated Cum Laude and received the Dean's Community Service Award. She also received her MS in Health Policy and Management from UCLA.

Jeff Thom What has happened legislatively and in advocacy for people who are blind or have visual impairments in 2018?  What might be to come in 2019? We ask an expert. After graduating from Stanford, Jeff Thom worked as an attorney for the California Legislature for 30 years. He is the immediate past president of the California Council of the Blind and he has had his finger on the pulse of federal and California legislation for decades. Sheela Gunn-Cushman hosts. Honoring the Hands of Korea's First Blind Lawyer Kim Jae Wang     Jeff has served in a variety of blindness-related capacities on the national, state, and local level.  He is currently vice-chair of the Sacramento Regional Transit District Mobility Advisory Council and a member of the board of directors of Disability Rights California. He is a father, grandfather and has hosted 14 foreign exchange students. He's also a bookworm and sports fan. The post Pushing Limits – December 21, 2018 appeared first on KPFA.

Why should progressives and people with disabilities be opposed to something called the Domestic Workers Civil Rights? Well folks are split on this state bill which would provide additional benefits to domestic workers who work for people with disabilities but do not receive IHSS assistance. Big contradictions there and Pushing Limits will try to sort it out on August 19 with guests from Disability Rights California vs. California Domestic Worker Coalition. Eddie Ytuarte and Adrienne Lauby host. The post Pushing Limits – August 19, 2011 appeared first on KPFA.

Executive Director Catherine Blakemore, from Disability Rights California, will discuss the work of her agency and the role of non profits in the disability community. "DRC is one of the highest funded disability non profits doing work in California and also one of the most successful" says co-host Eddie Ytuarte. But the question is do non profits operate under too narrow a charge and are they just too conservative–that is what Pushing Limits wants to pursue.   Co host is Leah Gardner The post Pushing Limits – November 6, 2009 appeared first on KPFA.

Pushing Limits will feature an interview with Will Leiner, attorney for Disability Rights California about a recent settlement enhancing the living opportunities for people living in state institutions. In addition, musicians with various disabilities will have their music sampled.   Leah Gardner and Eddie Ytuarte host. Disability Rights California:www.disabilityrightsca.org  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IHRK287rQA Judy Collins, Since You've Asked 2-36 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIUZkG6FmTQ&feature=PlayList&p=4425551FE2A26CB7&index=3 Barry Gibb, Fields of Gold http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLSSAZ7wsM0 Carly Simon, Blackbird, 2-36 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HB_ZuaceQQ Teddy Pendergrass, It's Time for Love http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FY53Rk-6-3I Tamia, Me http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wt_VoRZQRZc Alabama, Roll On 18-wheeler   The post Pushing Limits – May 1, 2009 appeared first on KPFA.