It's a New Era of Inclusion

From presidential candidates, Twitter chats, and disability representation, disability issues have become mainstream.

Hey Y’all!

Why is there an image of Pete Buttigieg in your email?

Well, it’s not because I’m endorsing him for president. My mind isn’t made up yet.

It’s because I’m ecstatic to share something I wrote for The Hechinger Report last week.

Tim Villegas @TheRealTimVegas

“Special education was never supposed to be a place but rather a service.” My thoughts about the education policies of the 2020 presidential candidates for the ⁦@hechingerreport⁩ // ⁦@PeteButtigieg⁩ @ewarren⁩ ⁦@BernieSanders⁩

hechingerreport.orgOPINION: Democratic presidential candidates address inclusive educationFinally, some good news for advocates of inclusive education: Democratic presidential candidates are addressing the issues.

Here is the exciting thing; disability issues are in the conversation for the first time in an election cycle in a meaningful way. If you are a parent or educator (or anyone for that matter) who cares about inclusion, this is a big deal.

Earlier this month, Elizabeth Warren and Pete Buttigieg participated in a Twitter Chat with the founders of #CripTheVote.

Elizabeth Warren @ewarren

I look forward to answering your questions at our first-ever #CripTheVote Twitter Town Hall!

To read the recap of the chats, check them out here (Warren) and here (Buttigieg).

An for those of you who don’t lean Democrat (I’m an Independent BTW), encourage your preferred candidate to engage with the disability community. One in four adults have a disability, it only makes sense that politicians listen to the largest minority group in the United States.

Last thing before I let you go.

Have you noticed the discussion around disabled characters in TV and film being played by disabled artists?

Jay Ruderman @JayRuderman

Very proud that @RudermanFdn can be a part of @sundancefest inclusion efforts this year, and I know "Crip Camp" will spark some change in the way we view #disability. #Sundance #RepresentMeHollywood @sundanceorg @nytimes @AP

nyti.msDisability-Rights Movement Takes Spotlight at SundanceDuring the thunderous reception for the celebratory disability-rights documentary “Crip Camp” at the Sundance Film Festival, the loudest response came when disability advocate Judith Heumann, one of the film’s chief personalities, wheeled on stage.

This is another sign that the disability rights movement is moving the needle towards authentic inclusion.

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Thank you!

Thanks for your time. We have transitioned from our old email service to Substack. Soon we will be offering other ways you can subscribe but for now, expect more from us on a weeklyish basis.

Have a great week!

Tim