“I propose a revolution of empowerment. A revolution that will empower every 21st century American to live his or her God- given potential for self determination, productivity and quality of life.”
(Justin Dart)
At a policy summit organized several years ago by the National Council on Disability, Justin Dart delivered a keynote address that is rapidly acquiring status as a major contemporary speech in the disability rights movement. In his remarks, he stated that he believed the movement is at an historic crossroads.
He advises advocates not to be disheartened by the current political and social environment of “blame and retreat”, but to pursue the goal of a shared community even more vigorously than they have in the past. “How can we possibly overcome the powerful lobbies for retreat and for the status quo?” Dart asks. Even our oldest, strongest friends in government seem to be overwhelmed by a tidal wave of hostile, escapist politics. Credible people are leaving public service. Who will save the dream? Who will make the dream live? Look around the room. The buck stops here. We are responsible!
The Key Coalition of Alaska is answering the call. The goal of this new group is to serve as a unified grassroots advocacy body for people who experience disabilities and for their families. The Key Coalition was officially established in December, 1996, having evolved from the state ARC. (ARC is national organization that has advocated for the rights of people with disabilities for over 30 years. This group was instrumental in getting the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act passed.)
One of the Key Coalition’s main functions is to assume responsibility for the Key Campaign from the Alaska Association on Developmental Disabilities (AADD), an organized coalition of provider agencies. The Key Coalition also plans to develop increased awareness of disability issues, work with public and private agencies in this effort, and promote legislation that includes and represents people with disabilities.
The group’s immediate goal is to develop its membership. Other goals include resource development, focusing on the annual Key Campaign and education at state and local levels.
(Re-printed from KEY notes
November 1, 1997
official newsletter
of the Key Coalition)
THE SAME DREAM
I dream:
- Of a day when there is no Wait List, when no one waits for community/family supports
- Of a day when Alaska has fiscally sound, programmatically healthy, community programs that are the very best in the nation and available to all
- Of a day when ALL Alaskans who experience disabilities, and their families, claim their birthright as equal, valued and contributing members of a shared society
- Of a day when full inclusion IS a reality and not a far off goal, distant dream, or concept for others
- Of a day when there are no barriers to accessibility, no broken, disintegrating family for want of modest supports and services