In January, the Council kicked off the year by launching a new Advocacy Discussion Group. This group serves as a space for advocates and changemakers across the state to connect, share information and experiences, and gain the skills to be effective advocates at both the local and state levels. With a few meetings now under its belt, the group continues to grow, evolve and progress.
“We have a really friendly group having casual but productive conversations about how to be a better advocate,” says group co-facilitator and Council staff member Mitch Brey. “We have people of all ages, parts of the state, and levels of advocacy experience coming on a reliable basis.” The Council’s Kathleen Callen is the other co-facilitator.
The Advocacy Discussion Group meets virtually over Zoom every other month. Each meeting starts with a discussion on a set topic about either a specific advocacy issue, like transportation access, or ways to build your skills, like how to share your story with legislators. Sometimes a guest speaker will join the group, such as Executive Director Denise Jess or a representative from the Disability Vote Coalition. The meetings are also forums for open discussion where participants are encouraged to speak up and share their stories about advocacy in their own lives.
Participants can share as much or little about their advocacy journeys as they see fit. “We like to say ’What is said in the meeting stays in the meeting, but what is learned in the meeting leaves with you,’” Mitch says. In addition to the meetings, those who attend can also be added to an email list where they can share information anytime.
Advocacy Discussion Group participant Michelle Castille says she joined to connect with others across the state who were working for change. “The group felt like a safe way to share my experiences and learn from others doing the same work,” Michelle says. “Hearing how others approach challenges gives me ideas and encouragement and has made me more confident in sharing my own story.”
The connection between members both affirms that people are not alone in their advocacy journey but also encourages them to explore new opportunities. Katie Corbett says she’s learning how to use the systems currently in place in her community to create change. “I live in a rural area and wanted to find ways to make transportation services more available to people with disabilities who live in my community,” Katie says. “A member of the group suggested I reach out to my local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC), and I decided to join their board. I’ve been to several ADRC Board meetings, joined their transportation committee, written articles for their monthly newsletter, and joined them for their legislative day at the State Capitol. My journey is only moving forward from here.”
Whether you want to become a regular participant or are just curious and want to sit in on a meeting, you are invited to join the discussion. You can find more information and register to attend our next meeting on September 17 on our website at WCBlind.org/Council-Events/Advocacy-Discussion-Group/.