Speak Up, Stand Tall: Why Self Advocacy Matters More Than Ever

August 8, 2023 | by sau1admin

In our last blog post, we talked about what self advocacy is. As a reminder, according to dictionary.com the definition of self-advocacy is, “The practice of having mentally handicapped people speak for themselves and control their own affairs, rather than having non handicapped people automatically assume responsibility for them.”

Being a self advocate can be hard at first, but it is important for you, as a member of the disabled community, to stand tall and fight for yourself, so that you get what you need and can live your life, your way.

The people making decisions for the disabled community do not have the experiences you have as a member of that community, so it is important for you to speak up for what you need so that the people making decisions make the right ones for people in our state and beyond.

But don't just take my word for it. Other self advocates at Self Advocates United as 1, told us why self advocacy is important to them.

Alexa Brill, SAU1 President, says, “Self Advocacy is speaking up for what you need and want in your life.”

Oscar Drummond, SAU1 Lead Power Coach and Ambassador, says, “Self advocacy means being able to speak up for myself and for others and also help people reach certain goals."

Only you, and the people you give permission to help you, have the power to speak up for you when it comes to living your life. If you speak up and stand tall you have the power to change your own life and the lives of others around you!

Want to learn more about using your power to speak up? Join us for one of our events! You can view our event schedule on our website.

Can't make one of these events? No problem! Join our Power Mail List so that you can get information about future events where you can stand tall with us and learn to speak up!

Knowledge is power and we are so happy that you have chosen to use yours!