REV UP 2016!!!

Dear Disability Rights Advocates:

In July 2015 we celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

We can take great pride in the historic advances we have made in the community integration of people with disabilities of all ages since the passage of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. No matter what the issue— education, housing, transportation, personal assistance services, employment, recreation, adaptive technology, durable medical equipment, or health care, we can see the advances that have improved our lives and moved us closer to true equality.

This has come about by working together and implementing a strategy that has included legislative, legal, direct action, and educational tactics. These tactics are part of our overall goal to bring about the community integration promised in the ADA.

We cannot rest on our past victories. We must build on the past and move forward using the power we have acquired. This power can be exerted if we Make the DISABILITY VOTE Count! Policymakers are influenced by large numbers of people turning out to vote in the primaries and the general elections. This reality is why we started the REV UP Campaign.

The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is a convener, connector, and catalyst for change, increasing the political and economic power of people with disabilities. The focus of the REV UP Campaign is to get more people with disabilities and our supporters registered and voting!

This Toolkit is designed to help you begin organizing in your state. Effective REV UP Campaigns will convene state and local disability organizations, such as centers for independent living (CIL) and protection and advocacy (P&A) organizations, to amplify this message and reach more people with disabilities.

If you need assistance getting connected to CILs or P&As in your state please contact AAPD at communications@aapd.com. We’ll be happy to make an introduction.

 

Register! Educate! Vote!

Use your Power!