Advocacy
New York State Fiscal Year 2023-24 Executive Budget: Advocacy Update
By Alison Taylor, ATI Advocacy Intern
November 18, 2022
INTRODUCTION
Now that election results across the state are in, it’s time to turn our advocacy efforts towards the New York State budget. Each year, the New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL) works with the state’s independent living centers (ILCs) to determine what issues require funding. The highest priorities are included in a budget proposal to the governor’s office. It is important to advocate for funding so that 1.) State representatives know these issues exist, and 2.) ILCs receive money that will help provide better services to more people.
It's National Disability Employment Awareness Month!
By Alison Taylor, ATI Advocacy Intern
September 30, 2022
INTRODUCTION
Did you know that it’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (also known as NDEAM)? This campaign celebrates people with disabilities and their contributions to the workplace. This year’s theme is “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation.”
Voting For Our Future This November
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
August 26, 2022
INTRODUCTION
Ahead of National Disability Voter Right’s Week from September 12th-16th, ATI is encouraging everyone to make a plan to vote this November. It is important to vote in elections because government officials make decisions that significantly impact our community and lives in every area. High voter-turnout also helps hold elected officials accountable to the people they represent. Unfortunately, many disabled people still face structural and policy-based barriers that make it difficult to vote. For this reason, it is important to understand the laws that protect people’s right to vote.
It's Time for Back-To-School!
EDUCATION ADVOCACY AT ATI
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
July 28, 2022
Introduction
While beginning a new school year can be exciting and stressful for everyone, disabled and chronically ill students may struggle even more than their peers. If your student struggled or disliked school last year, they likely were not receiving the appropriate accommodations and/or services they needed to be successful. With as many as 15% of public-school students receiving some type of special education service as of 2021, it is easy for needs to be overlooked and go unmet by the school.