Impacting Issues at the State Level

One of the most important things we do as part of the disability community, is advocate for change through a process called “Agitation.” We do this to make the community, or a piece of it, work better for everyone. “Agitation” usually starts with the identification of a physical barrier or policy that keeps people from participating in community life. We do research on the issue, identify what we want to see happen differently that is legally acceptable, and figure out who can make that change happen. Then, we begin to ask, to write letters, to educate, negotiate and sometimes consider filing a complaint or a lawsuit. Members of our staff, consumers, and lobbyists work together to try to remove barriers for people with disabilities (PWD) through making change with the Colorado state legislature and other government entities

In addition to letters, talking points, informational flyers, and other lobbying efforts, The Independence Center also creates issue briefs that are distributed to leaders so they can learn about the issues important to PWD. An Issue Brief is a relatively short document that discusses an issue, provides a recommendation for action, lists references, and provides contact information. The point of Issue Briefs is to inform people about a problem within the community and how we can solve that problem together. The Independence Center hopes that as a part of the disability community, we can agitate for change, and that you’ll join us. To learn more about the work The IC is doing, please view the advocacy content we’ve created for the public and state and local leaders below.