The disability community is facing serious threats from the federal government. From devastating Medicaid cuts to the dismantling of long-standing support systems, immigration actions, cuts to research grants, and more, there is deep fear, uncertainty, and anxiety among our community.
The Arc of Massachusetts, which represents and advocates for over 250,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, and their families, is deeply concerned about this administration’s actions and policies. It is important to note that disability status intersects with every other identity and all proposed cuts and changes will disproportionately impact disabled people from other marginalized communities.
The Arc of Massachusetts is on high alert. Our team is listening to the community, analyzing federal cuts and proposals in real-time, advocating directly to our congressional delegation and our state leaders, and sharing fact-based resources.
Several months ago, The Arc launched the Disability Impact Tracker: Community Check-In Survey where our community could share how federal changes are impacting their lives. Nearly 600 people responded. Below is a summary of the impact of the current proposed federal cuts on our community. Small edits to responses were made for clarity.
