Disability Rights Advocacy
Advocacy is at the heart of every CIL, and Disability Network is no exception. We operate from the perspective of helping people be self-advocates. That means that we won’t do things for you, we will do them with you.
Individual Advocacy
We assist people in understanding their rights as people with disabilities. We have experience advocating with people in employment, educational, and community settings. If you want to talk to our disability rights advocate, contact Paul Ecklund at (269) 345-1516 or (800) 394-7450 or pecklund@drccil.org.
Systems Advocacy
We believe that many of the difficulties people with disabilities face are due to problems with “the system”. Our government programs and our society’s attitudes toward people with disabilities create unnecessary barriers to leading fully productive lives. We worked to change that. One way we do this is through our Advocacy Teams.
Advocacy Teams
Our Advocacy Teams are a key part of the civil rights movement of people with disabilities. Made up of people with disabilities and their allies, our teams have a significant impact in our communities
Access Team (Kalamazoo)
Focused on making Kalamazoo more accessible to people with disabilities. This group meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm. We welcome new members! Contact Paul at pecklund@drccil.org or (269) 345-1516 x62.
TAG Team (Kalamazoo)
Focused on improving public transportation in Kalamazoo County. This group meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month from 11:00 am - 12:00 noon. Everyone interested in public transit is welcome. Contact Michele at mmcgowen@drccil.org or (269) 345-1516 x35.
TAG Team (Battle Creek)
Focused on improving public transportation in Battle Creek. Contact Marilyn at mrobinson@drccil.org or Michele at 288-0047 or mmcgowen@drccil.org for more information.
Other Ways to Get Involved
Join Get Active! By joining Get Active you will be connected with other disablity advocates around the state when emerging advocacy issues need your attention. It's free, it's easy, and it does make a difference.
A Citizen’s Guide to State Government (Michigan)
A great resource with contact information for elected state (and national) officials including committee assignments, how to write a letter to an elected official, and more.
Learn more about your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at www.ada.gov
http://www.mhselfhelp.org/techassist/serving.pdf
How to serve on boards and committees: A guide to consumer of mental health services.