Attempts to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to speak out for their needs have often been met with skepticism by society. In most cases, caregivers and professionals have played the role of advocate with lawmakers and community leaders. However, an emerging body of research shows that with support these individuals can be powerful advocates for their own causes.
With this in mind, Albert Einstien College of Medicine's Kennedy Center and documentary filmmaker Alice Elliot created this set of public service training videos on self-advocacy. This peer-directed seven-part video called ACTIVATE HERE! is produce specifically for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. There are clear, step-by-step instructions on how to be a self-advocate and how to ask for and effect change.
The series covers these topics:
- What is a Self-Advocate?
- Preparing to Advocate
- Preparing Ideas for the Meeting with Elected Officials
- Setting Up and Appointment
- Preparing Oneself for the Meeting
- Following Up After the Meeting
- Additional Tips
