As you may know, my sister started working in care homes over the summer during high school. What was a part-time job blossomed into a passion and she started running training programs to help individuals advocate for themselves in the workplace, and in their day-to-day lives. She even made a monthly habit of bringing several individuals to our representatives in government to discuss their proposals on new laws. If you know my sister, you can probably guess that a fair number of these people have become part of our lives. Talking with them about the difference self-advocacy training has made and hearing my sister's stories I have come to realize just how important it is to teach everyone to advocate for themselves. Teaching everyone that their voice is powerful. You begin to realise how much goes unheard, or simply goes unsaid when people lack the opportunity to speak for themselves. 

Self-advocacy is our most powerful weapon. And access to justice ought to be clear-cut. Yet the legal system is confusing and intimidating, not a forum in which many people feel confident advocating for themselves. And often a place where if you don't say the right thing you may go unheard. 

Where the law is concerned, sometimes you need help, an ally, an advocate. The Disability Law Service provides that guidance, that assistance in critical and complex situations. Everyone should have access to legal guidance and I want to raise money to help the Disability Law Service to fulfill their mission of providing information, advice and assistance to those with disabilities and their carers.

Thank you so so much for any and all donations! 

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