Disability Viewpoints – Minneapolis Community Specialist

More cities need to be investing in positions like this one in Minneapolis. There is great value in focusing on a position like this since you’re much more able to meet the needs of that population. 
Host Joan Willshire talks with new City of Minneapolis Community Specialist Guthrie Bayard, who will be the city’s first specialist for issues of disability.

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Disability Viewpoints: One MN Survey

In January 2019 Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order, creating the One Minnesota Council on Inclusion and Equity. A multi-phased Intersectionality study was conducted and focused on the Intersectionality of race and equity, in communities. It included developmental disabilities that lead to social discrimination and disparities across delivery systems and program areas.

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Metropolitan Center for Independent Living Welcomes Mai Thor and Joan Willshire to its Board of Directors

The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) is pleased to announce two new
members have been appointed to its Board of Directors. They will join current board members,
providing strategic guidance, valued perspective, and expertise in oversight of the non-profit
organization. Guided by its mission of Removing Barriers, Promoting Choices, MCIL has assisted
people with disabilities in living their most independent lives for more than 40 years. Serving the
seven-county metro area through a wide range of services, programs, resources, partnerships, and
advocacy, MCIL is among the largest Centers for Independent Living in Minnesota.

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Partners in Policymaking Graduates Interview

37 years ago, the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities in the Department of Administration created a groundbreaking advocacy and leadership training program to give people with disabilities and their families the resources and skills to communicate effectively with their elected officials.

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Disability Pride Month – July 2023

The entire month of July is now celebrated as Disability Pride Month. This is a good idea as the LGBTQ community has certainly been successful organizing a grass roots effort to celebrate Pride in June. Disability pride month is about celebrating our differences without using the label special needs.

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Happy Birthday ADA

I’ve had 25+ years working in the disability community from marketing disability services in healthcare to creating disability policy in government. I am now president of my own consulting company. My goal is for companies and businesses to learn more about disability inclusion for people with disabilities in business.

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