The Advocacy Life Podcast & Blog

Tag: inclusion

  • A Message to the New Governor

    A Message to the New Governor

    “The price of freedom is eternal vigilance,” Thomas Jefferson famously declared.

    I’m writing this blog just hours before the election results roll in here in New Jersey. By the time many of you read this, our state will probably have a new governor-elect. If I could address the incoming governor, I would start with this: Do not forget us.

    The disability population is the largest, most underserved, and most underrepresented community in America. We are voters. We are taxpayers. We are citizens. Yet, we are an afterthought, if thought of at all. Our needs are frequently sidelined in policy debates, treated as niche issues rather than fundamental human rights. This needs to change.

    Our community is incredibly diverse. Disability comes in every skin color, every background, every walk of life. It touches families across all demographics, socio-economic statuses, and geographic locations. This means that disability rights are unequivocally human rights. They do not subscribe to any single political party, and our allegiance isn’t to a red or blue banner, but to the dignity of every person.

    We stand for policies that genuinely support independence and self-determination, not those that inadvertently trap individuals in poverty or limit their potential. The disability experience is unique to the individual; a “one size fits all” approach simply does not work. We need policies crafted with nuance, understanding that what empowers one person may not work for another. We need legislation that respects the dignity of risk, allowing individuals to make choices, to learn, to contribute, and to live full, meaningful lives without fear of losing essential supports.

    Many people with disabilities can and want to work. We want to contribute to our communities, to pay taxes, and to be active participants in the economy. Yet, current systems often create perverse disincentives, penalizing individuals who earn above a certain threshold by stripping away vital benefits like healthcare or personal care assistance. This traps people in a cycle of dependence when they desire nothing more than to be independent. Help us break these barriers. Help us contribute without fearing penalty. Help us be taxpayers, not perceived burdens.

    Our community wants to contribute, not just consume resources. We seek opportunities, not charity. We demand respect, not pity. We are a vital part of New Jersey, and our voices deserve to be heard, our needs addressed, and our rights protected.

    As the new administration takes shape, I urge them to remember Thomas Jefferson’s warning. The freedom and well-being of the disability community depend on constant vigilance from our leaders. We will be watching, advocating, and striving for a New Jersey where every citizen can thrive.

  • The Kennedy Family & Disabled Americans

    The Kennedy Family & Disabled Americans

    “A snake pit, where they live in filth and dirt, their clothing in rags, in rooms less comfortable and cheerful than the cages in which we put animals in a zoo.”

    Robert Kennedy Senior made this statement when he was visiting Willowbrook in 1965.

    Willowbrook State School was a state-supported institution for children with intellectual disabilities. Designed to accommodate 4,000 children, by 1965, Willowbrook had a population of 6,000, and a scandal soon erupted over news of the institution’s horrendous conditions and questionable medical practices. It was not closed for another 2 years despite all the outrage. Would you want your child to live in these conditions?

    Disability does not have a political party. A disability does not have a skin color or a specific ethnic race. Disability is America. The only two things certain in this world are death and disability. What makes America great is that we learn from our past so we don’t repeat the mistakes we have made. Disability is not waste, fraud, or abuse. Disability is an example of Hope and prosperity in the American dream. The American Disability community is an example of living prosperity and endurance.

    It’s hard to pinpoint the exact birth of the disability rights movement because disability has been around since the beginning of time, and it will be there until the end of days. America was introduced to the harsh reality of abuse through Robert Kennedy Sr.’s poignant account. Devoid of proper respect and support. Our community faces suffering and death. An autism diagnosis is not evil or a death sentence. A wheelchair is not a confinement, but a tool for opulence.

    This is the current battle that disabled America is facing. We won’t stand for our brothers and sisters being locked up. We aim to help people live fulfilling lives. In the land of the free and the brave, we uphold truth, justice, and the American way as a testament to our identity. Living with a disability presents many challenges. While that’s a fact, things worth pursuing are rarely simple.

    “We choose to do these things not because they’re easy, but because they’re hard.”

    President John F Kennedy made this statement when referring to reaching the Moon in a decade. We have the same privilege to reach for the same stars as anyone else. In America, we do not fear challenges; we embrace them so we can grow. America today is making choices out of fear and misunderstanding. I believe in America, I believe in its people. We still have time to change course. To see value in all of us. Our chosen elected officials need to listen to us. 

    '“ Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord. 'Leviticus 19:18

    “I don’t think people should take medical advice from me.’

    This statement was made by Robert Kennedy Jr. The current Secretary of Health and Human Services. There will always be misconceptions around disability and our healthcare. However, if we are left out of the conversation, we cannot help the country move forward. The current administration and the disability community cannot be enemies, we must be allies to achieve tomorrow’s victories. Without disability, America will fail because we are America.

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  • For the Love of America

    For the Love of America

    I am a political nerd. I like to watch C-SPAN when I can. This week I knew something special was going to happen. In case you missed it, New Jersey Senator Cory Booker was on the Senate floor for over 25 hours. The man did not stop speaking. He did not sit down unless he was asked a question. He answered the question despite that, he did not sit down! Most Americans feel unheard by their elected officials. Many of the senator’s words were reading letters from his constituents to protect Medicaid. The Medicaid program is not healthcare, it is a lifeline for millions of Americans. Senator Booker, thank you for hearing us.

    I still don’t understand how cutting 880 billion dollars over 10 years is the best path forward for America. Are The prices of eggs going to go down? One in three children who use these benefits are they going to be okay? So many counties nationwide use the Meals on Wheels program to feed older adults. Can local municipalities be ready to pick up the cost? Can they even do so? Yes, the American way of life is expensive, but we cannot save costs at the expense of the most vulnerable. Individuals with disabilities are so strong they need the right support and the opportunities to show it.

    1 Corinthians 3:10 NIV By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.

    I understand and will fully admit that the government can be way too big. I’m a capitalist through and through. This website is where I sell my books and other works. Americans do need more money in their pocket, but this is not how to do it. When a doctor takes a sample for a biopsy, they use a scalpel, not a hacksaw! If you are going to switch to a new mode of operation, then give people a chance to learn so they can follow it. This week, Secretary Kennedy and President Trump cut a lot of positions from the Department of Human Services. That is a prerogative. What’s wrong is how they do it. Depending on the position, they’re not offered a severance package. You cannot build America without its people.

    Is there a formula that decides what jobs are needed and what jobs are not? Are these decisions being made by artificial intelligence? How do you value an American life? I want the best for vongressional representatives, senators, and president Trump. I want the best for the American people. America will not be the best if we leave others behind. The next building, a strong future, means using all Americans.

    Senator Booker gave us a call to action. A lot of us cannot go, march in Washington, DC. I have another idea post video of your day post them all over social media. Show yourself getting out of bed with twheelsgiver. show yourself with your husband or wife going to the store. If you deliver Meals on Wheels, then take a picture with the person you gave the food to. Let those in power see the smiles on our faces. Help them remember that brief moment also built America. America is more than money. America is neighbors helping each other. America is everyone doing the part. America is alive. Either we all thrive or we will not survive. Thank you for your time.

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  • Examples of Ableism

    Examples of Ableism

    As a child with a disability, I attended mainstream classes all my life. One memorable class was DARE (Drug Awareness Resistance Education), aimed at preventing drug addiction—a fear shared by all parents. This program made me realize the importance of early education on critical issues. Just as children learn about the dangers of drugs, they should also be taught about disability etiquette and inclusion from a young age.

    Children’s natural curiosity about differences should be nurtured, not stifled. When a child asks about someone with a disability, parents often shush them out of discomfort. This only perpetuates ignorance. Instead, open discussions can foster understanding and empathy. I recall a time at a mall with my brother Abner and our caregivers. We exited an elevator and overheard a father tell his son, “Thank God you’re not like them.” This comment stung, but more than that, it made me pity the man for his ignorance—a product of likely never having been exposed to individuals with disabilities.

    The disability community is the largest underrepresented and underserved group in the U.S., encompassing every body shape, skin color, sexual orientation, and gender. Despite this, society often ignores us to avoid disrupting their busy lives. Disability is not going away; it’s a natural part of the human experience. Everyone is only “temporarily able” and might need help eventually.

    Living with a disability means no days off; it’s a constant presence. Every day, I face frustrations and struggles. In school, I wasn’t just the last picked for dodgeball—I was excluded entirely because it was deemed “too dangerous.” In home economics, while others learned to sew, I was switched to a different elective because the teacher assumed I couldn’t use the sewing machine pedal. I was never given a chance to adapt or prove my abilities.

    Ableism limits growth for societal convenience, imposing barriers that exclude rather than include. Consider the story of Judy Heumann and the 504 sit-in—a pivotal moment in American history that highlights the fight for disability rights. Stories like hers should be part of our collective knowledge, teaching us about resilience and the importance of inclusivity.

    Exposure to disability issues from a young age can normalize differences and reduce stigma. Integrating disability awareness into education can help children grow into empathetic, informed adults. The more we see and understand people with disabilities, the less “other” they become.

    Our society must recognize that disability is part of the human condition and that inclusivity benefits everyone. By breaking down barriers and challenging ableist attitudes, we create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We must move beyond fear and ignorance to embrace a future where all individuals are valued for their unique contributions.

  • Motivation for Creators

    Motivation for Creators

    Hello readers,

    How is everyone doing? Let me know in the comments! I’ve been blogging and creating positive disability awareness content for a while now. It’s been quite an experience with its ups and downs. I’ve seen a lot of creators share their tips and tricks with their audiences, so I thought I’d do the same. This list won’t include tutorials on how to make money because that’s not my goal. I choose to share my heart and my stories to make a small difference in the world. It’s that simple. What follows is a letter for every content creator out there, but it’s also a reminder for myself on days when I feel frustrated. I can look back at it and remind myself that I can keep going.

    Click Here to Read More: Motivation for Creators 
    'Do everything in love. '1 Corinthians 16:14

    To Whom It May Concern,

    First of all, thank you for all that you create on whatever platform you choose. Creating anything is not easy. The page always starts off blank, and you can’t make the best video or podcast if you don’t press record first. You’ll spend hours perfecting and redoing your work, and not everyone is going to follow or subscribe to your content. You can’t make people read every word you write, no matter how much effort you put into it. The market is full of creators constantly battling for attention. You won’t always win, and you won’t always lose. Try not to take it personally. Even the best creators can’t get everyone to follow them, so it’s impossible for you to do the same or better. Haters are real; learn to ignore them. The block button can be your best friend. Help when you can, and step aside if you can’t. You will never make everyone happy all the time. Don’t forget to rest both physically and mentally. Turn off the microphone sometimes. Don’t open up the laptop every day. If a certain platform doesn’t work for you, don’t use it. It’s your creation, so do what works for you. This won’t work if you do it just for money; it has to come from your heart and soul. If you’re not having fun, then you’re not doing it right. Always be yourself; never be fake. People will notice sooner or later. I hope this helps you and reignites the fire inside you. Never let it go out. You might just be the light in someone’s day. Thank you for your time, have a wonderful day, and good luck with your creations. I’m always here to help fellow creators, so feel free to contact me anytime.

  • The Faith Choice

    The Faith Choice

    I know today is Thursday. My blogs usually come out on Wednesdays but since the first of the month falls on a Wednesday, my podcast is automatically released on the first and 15th of every month I decided to push this one back a day.

    ‭Hebrews 11:1 NIV‬  Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

    Ever heard the saying, ‘Seeing isn’t believing; believing is seeing’? It’s from the movie ‘The Santa Clause.’ While the movie is just okay, that one line always sticks with me. I hope you’re all having a safe and happy week. I’m writing this on Good Friday, though you’ll read it later. I tend to write ahead of time, so that’s why.

    Now, I don’t consider myself super religious, but I do believe in something bigger than us. Once, someone asked me how I could believe in God. My answer? ‘I couldn’t imagine life without Him.’ It’s kind of scary to talk about this sometimes; I never want to offend anyone. But talking about faith seems to stir up trouble these days, which is too bad. Here’s what I think: faith isn’t supposed to be easy. We all find our own way, no matter what we believe in. Disability has affected every part of my life, including my faith journey.

    We’re often told that hard work pays off. Well, let me tell you, I’ve tried to go to college three times, and each time, life got in the way. From having a good GPA and making the Dean’s List to starting over because my credits didn’t transfer – it was tough. But years later, when I did my first interview for a state disability magazine, I finally saw the impact of my efforts. We get so caught up in everyday stuff that we forget to look at the big picture sometimes.

    Sure, I get asked the same questions over and over again, but that’s how change happens – one person at a time. Not everyone will get you; some people just don’t understand. I’ve had people literally run away from me when I try to talk to them. The world can be a tough place. But for every person who doesn’t understand, there are three others who want to listen and see you for who you are. Faith, to me, is about choosing to see the good in people before anything else.

    I’m not some religious leader or anything like that. I don’t go to church as much as I probably should, and I swear more than I should, too. But nothing hurts more than realizing I’m asking for help when I see my caregiver is tired. There are days when I’d give anything to walk again. But when I think about the impact one person can have, I’m reminded that maybe there’s a plan for all of us, even in tough times.

    So, here’s to facing life’s challenges with faith as our guide, believing that there’s a purpose behind everything, even when things seem really hard.”

  • Investigating wheelchair Rapunzel

    Investigating wheelchair Rapunzel

    This week’s blog is going to be difficult for me to write. When I first started this project, it was meant to uplift my disability community and shed a light in this often dark world. I never want to bash anyone with a disability; our lives can be difficult enough. There is someone out there who is using various social media platforms to perpetuate negative narratives and victimize herself to gain fame and fortune. Alex Dacy, otherwise known as Wheelchair Rapunzel, is a disabled female living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). She is not an influencer; she is seeking attention.

    I used to follow her on TikTok and Instagram. I am not an influencer, nor am I judging her based on her disability. She makes me sad and angry because she has so many blessings but does not appreciate them. She should be an example for people with disabilities. Instead, she is an albatross for our way of life. In 1977, Judith Heumann the mother of the disability rights movement, was on the cover of Time magazine. In 2024, our community will see negative stereotypes reinforced because of people like Alex. You don’t have to take my word for it; I have a list of sources below that will let you see for yourself.

    ' “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 'Matthew 7:15

    I feel it’s important for people with disabilities to support others. When I used to follow her, it was fun to see someone with a major disability going to the club and living their best life. After a few videos, her content got old fast for me because it reminded me of one of those guests on Jerry Springer. There is a medication called Spinraza that stops or severely slows the progression of her particular disability. The closest thing there is to a miracle drug. As long as it is taken daily. Alex calls it “twerk juice.” It does not take a rocket scientist to see that she is using other drugs or alcohol throughout the day. It is also clear that her content is monetized. Good for her.

    On a recent podcast, she was asked about her adult entertainment site, which I never followed. Again, not a judgment on her. Individuals with disabilities have sex. However, she cannot claim that she had no other choice and she only did it to support her daughter., You cannot have your cake and eat it too. She is blessed with a beautiful daughter who is showcased frequently in her videos. Honestly, I forgot all about her until a few days ago, when I noticed our community was divided on whether to support her or not after she posted several videos victimizing herself for having Child Protective Services (CPS) make several visits to the home.

    CPS harasses parents with disabilities. It is a sad right of passage for a new disabled mom or dad. This is not the case for Wheelchair Rapunzel and her baby’s father. They received home visits because they were high or drunk. The child is being neglected. Don’t take my word for it. Watch the videos for yourself. Her face is always bloodshot, and her partner” is smoking in the videos! One of the sources is an interview with one of her former caregivers. Alexis clearly needs counseling and to seek help. I do wish her the best, but right now she is not someone that should be followed or admired.

    There are so many real disabled content creators and influencers who show their lives in the right way. Squirmy and Grubs a man with the same disability, have a YouTube channel with his wife. I commend them for the courage it took to document the struggle they went through trying to conceive a child. I know so many disabled couples who cry themselves to sleep, knowing they cannot have a child. So many men and women just happen to have some sort of disability that is constantly ignored because people don’t take the time to see their hearts. This world is so backward. All I can say is to investigate what you consume with your time and energy; don’t just watch something because it’s trending. As always, thanks for reading. I will see you next week.

    Sources: