Advocacy
Earth Day & Disability
By Jenna Martinez, ATI Advocacy Intern
March 29, 2024
INTRODUCTION
Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22nd to emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe and clean environment on Earth. Climate change is a very real threat that disproportionately affects people with disabilities. A study prepared for the United Nations World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction found that individuals with disabilities are two to four times more likely to die or be critically injured during disaster situations. Additionally, most people with disabilities who experience natural disasters never return home. To prevent negative health effects such as heat/water illness and injury and death, it is important that people with disabilities are made aware of the possible impacts and create a plan targeted towards climate change and natural disasters.
Recognizing Disability Day of Mourning & Women's History Month
By Jenna Martinez, ATI Advocacy Intern
March 1, 2024
INTRODUCTION
Every year on March 1st, those within the disability community and their allies come together to recognize Disability Day of Mourning. This day remembers those with disabilities who fell victim to murder by their parents or caregivers. Since 2012, the Disability Day of Mourning has transformed into an international movement in which vigils are held to remember those who fell victim to filicide and to bring awareness to this very real and growing issue.
Governor Hochul’s 2024 NYS Budget Proposal Analysis
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
January 26, 2024
INTRODUCTION
At the end of January, Governor Hochul published her suggested budget for our state spending. While the budget covers all areas of state finance, we wanted to share some important points that impact disabled and chronically ill people. While there are some positives, we are expecting some losses and need people to share their feelings on these issues with their legislators.
NYAIL Budget Priorities for 2024
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
December 20, 2023
INTRODUCTION
Once staff return from the holiday break, it will be time to turn our advocacy efforts towards the 2024 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. This means they ask the governor to set aside money to support these issues. It is important to advocate for funding so people are aware these issues exist and are properly addressed.
