Building Power in Uncertain Times

As we reflect on the recent election outcomes in California and across the nation, it’s clear that our movement is at a critical juncture. The challenges we face, both old and new, demand a united and strategic response. Now is the time to reaffirm our commitment to protecting and advancing the rights of the disability community.

Facing the Threats Head-On

This election cycle revealed unsettling truths. Disabled voters and their families were largely ignored, scapegoated, and disrespected by candidates at every level. The rhetoric we heard wasn’t just dismissive, it raised serious concerns about how these leaders will govern. Yet, for those of us in California, this neglect isn’t new.

Over recent years, we’ve witnessed alarming rollbacks of civil and human rights for disabled people under a Democratic supermajority. Policies like Proposition 36, CARE Court, and SB 43 further entangle marginalized individuals with coercive systems. Meanwhile, measures like Proposition 1 divert crucial resources from programs that our community has fought to build.

As someone who grew up in California and lives with bipolar disorder, I am deeply disheartened by these regressive actions. Despite years of advocacy, lawmakers have chosen quick fixes over meaningful, community-informed solutions. Their approach, driven by desperation to address visible crises, has only exacerbated the harm to unhoused and disabled residents.

A New Era of Unity

The disability community in California is rallying like never before. Through partnerships like the California Disability Leadership Alliance, we are shaping a collective vision for the future. Our recently released State of the State report calls on policymakers to collaborate with disabled-led organizations to enact bold reforms in areas like education, housing, transportation, and public safety.

This isn’t just a document, it’s a blueprint for action, and we will hold lawmakers accountable to follow our lead, not dictate our future.

Harnessing the Power of Our Vote

Our strength lies not just in our voices but in our numbers. Over nine million Californians report having a disability, and when you include our families, we represent over half the state’s population. As Patty Berne, co-founder of Sins Invalid, reminds us:

"Strength isn’t just about momentary power; it’s the gritty persistence that disabled people embody every day."

We will mobilize this strength to make our presence felt at the ballot box and engage directly with candidates for upcoming elections. Together, we will demand respect and action from those who seek our support.

Building Bipartisan Bridges

With shifting political landscapes, it’s time to leverage our bipartisan roots. The disability rights movement has a proud history of collaboration, with leaders from both parties, Tom Harkin, Bob Dole, Ted Kennedy, John McCain, and George H. W. Bush, coming together to champion our cause.

We will revive this spirit of unity. By working with California’s bipartisan Disability Caucus and forging new alliances in Washington, we will protect landmark achievements like the Americans with Disabilities Act while pushing for innovative policies that empower our community.

Confronting Intersectional Oppression

As we advance, we must also confront the systemic barriers faced by those who live at the intersections of multiple oppressions. Racism, sexism, transphobia, and xenophobia were on full display this election cycle, leaving many in our community fearful for their safety.

We stand unwavering in our commitment to combat hate in all its forms. True advocacy for disabled people means addressing the unique challenges of those who experience compounded discrimination.

Actionable Steps

Moving forward, our priorities include:

• Partnering with lawmakers to implement CARE Court, SB 43, and Proposition 36 in ways that uphold autonomy and self-determination.
• Advocating at the federal level to end subminimum wage employment.
• Protecting critical policies like the Affordable Care Act and modernizing disability programs to ensure dignity, opportunity, and equity.
• Amplifying the voices of disabled voters and building coalitions that reflect our diverse community.

A Call for Persistent Action

As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said:

"Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle… This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action."

We are the agents of change in California and beyond. Together, we will overcome these challenges and forge a path toward real freedom, dignity, and inclusion for all. Let’s get to work.

In solidarity,

Your Partner in Advocacy