I noticed a theme while writing this week’s edition of Another Normal: the importance of finding your voice. It’s essential in order to advocate for ourselves and others, to speak up and out for the things that we feel passionate about. And it’s vital in order for us to sing and shout when we’re filled with joy. Some people find their voice at a young age. Some of us take longer. What’s important is that we keep trying. And that we teach our children (no matter what age or ability) to do the same.
Thanks for being here, for leaving a comment and/or sharing this e-mail with someone else. Thanks for using your voice to support what matters to you. Thanks for learning to bloom.
“If you think you’re too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito.”
—Anita Roddick
Amplify advocacy.
It’s not too late to register for this week’s Disability Policy Seminar. Virtual this year due to the pandemic, this event is co-sponsored by nine disability organizations to promote education and advocacy on issues of importance to the I/DD community. I’ll be reporting back on what transpires, and I encourage you to join in the online sessions and visits with Congressional leaders if you have the time and interest. This is how change is made, and we all play a part. Click here to learn more and register.
Cannabis for a cause.
Officials in Colorado are auctioning off marijuana-themed license plates this month to raise money for people with disabilities. From April 1 to April 20, anyone can bid on vanity plates with terms like “BONG,” “GANJA,” “HEMP,” and more. Winners who live outside CO will receive a novelty plate which can’t be used for driving but still might become a much-loved collectors item and “sign of the times.” CO drivers will receive plates for use on vehicles registered with the state DMV. Monies raised by this auction will support the Colorado Disability Funding Committee, which gives grants to organizations that benefit the disability community. What do you think of this idea?
Next stop: Singapore.
So many reasons to add this city to your bucket list. Out-of-this-world airport, futuristic architecture, cheap and inventive food, off-the-charts safety profile, and no chewing gum to step in. Plus, Singapore is a global leader in developing inclusive work and living opportunities for people with disabilities. How do they do it? High taxes for sure, plus the country’s president is a true champion for this complicated cause. She is the first woman to hold the post in Singaporean history (and the mother of five!). If this interests you, jump down the rabbit hole here. So many good examples of how to make the world better for everyone.
Stepping up.
Twenty years ago, as the new mother of a young son with cerebral palsy, I started a boycott of Nike. It wasn’t easy, since I love their shoes and clothes. But the company had placed an incredibly offensive advertisement in Backpacker magazine, and I was incensed. Working with my colleagues at Procter & Gamble, I launched a letter-writing campaign with some of our senior executives. Our protest and that of many others in the disabled community led to a public apology from Nike (which pulled the ad), but I still doubted their sincerity. Enter Matthew Walzer. The young man behind Nike’s hands-free shoe is a 25-year-old self-advocate whose story reminds us of all that can be accomplished with focus and determination. Change is possible…even if it takes twenty years.
Loud and proud.
I recently learned about an amazingly talented band called Flame. All its members have a developmental disability, and they’re fantastic! Over the years, they’ve performed everywhere from “Good Morning America” to Harvard Law School, as well as in Greece and Italy. Check out their song list and book them for your next event. I love when the spotlight shines on all abilities.
Catching Zzzzzs.
I’m having trouble sleeping lately. A lot. Maybe it’s my age, my allergies, or just stress.🤔 Whatever the reason, this little book has been a step in the right direction. When I wake up and can’t get back to sleep, I now focus on my breathing. As science can support, it helps. Any other hints for hitting the hay?
Another Normal is a newsletter dedicated to helping families with disabilities learn to bloom. If this e-mail was forwarded to you, please subscribe and receive your own copy. You can also hit the “heart” button at the bottom of this e-mail 🖤 to help others find us on the internet.
Until next week…
I look forward to reading your newsletter each Monday. It's well-written, informative, and timely. Thanks for sharing Matthew Walzer's story. It was inspiring and uplifting!