Episode #054 - Discrimination by Design: How Policies Threaten the Most Severely Disabled

Featuring: Ashley Kim, Together for Choice

Jackie Ceonzo, SNACK* NYC

Note: For a video recording with slides, please see NCSAutism.org/webinars.

There is a nationwide shortage of long term supports and services available and it disproportionately affects adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities in need of 24/7 support. The need for such housing has been ignored and gone unanswered for decades by many responsible for the well-being of this population. While Congress expected that the ADA’s integration mandate would be interpreted in a manner that ensures that individuals who are eligible for institutional placement are able to exercise a right to community-based long-term services and supports, that expectation has not been fulfilled.

We believe that people with disabilities should have the right to choose where they live, work, and receive services that are appropriate for their needs and preferences without those responsible for making choice a reality blocking that path with red tape.

Links: Togetherforchoice.org SNACKNYC.com