Advocating and Learning
Accepting the groups invitation was RepresentativeTracyMcCreery, a member of the Missouri House of Representatives, representing the 88thdistrict in St. Louis County, including Olivette where the St. Louis Arc is located.The event was hailed a success with 21peopleattending the event.The group spoke with RepresentativeMcCreeryon her experiences with disability rights and issues, how they,as young constituents,could better connect with policymakers, and whether she would support an increase in funding to support students with disabilities inside the classroom.
MichkealCross, President of the St. Louis Self-Advocates enjoyed the event and looks forward to being able to do similar events in the future.”RepresentativeMcCreerywasvery insightful and educationalMichkealshared. She was honest about how she can learn more about disability rights and the DSP crisis so that she can talk about it when shes in the sessions with other legislators.
In addition to voicing their opinions, the young self-advocates walked away with new skills and knowledge.The group brainstormed questions, researched their legislators, and were able to build their confidence in speaking with policymakers.
Join the Group
Watch for the St. Louis Self-Advocates social media campaign on Facebook and Instagram, #DisabilityPrideSLSA, coming in September. If you are interested in learning more about the St. Louis Self-Advocates, please contact contact Cait Carr at 314-817-2215.