Advocacy
Advocacy can mean many things both in regard to what and the how. The what for us is—working toward policies, funding, laws, regulations and other types of outcomes which advance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families (see our mission here ). On a simple level, the “how” means encouraging, pleading, urging, and providing justification. But it gets more complex when you apply the “how” to “where”. There is the administration of the state or federal government, the legislature, the courts, school committees, etc.
The advancements of our present age didn’t come easily and require vigilance and yes, advocacy. Further advocacy for our cause requires people –anyone who cares about disabilities and wishes to build a good life in the community. Services cost dollars, rights require laws and regulations and understanding takes public education. Much has been done, but there continues to be work to do. The Advocacy pages share areas in which we are most involved and tools. Our priorities evolve over time. This page provides an index of the section and government affairs headlines.
Headlines
Contact Your Representative: Ensure Important FY22 Budget Line Items Are Increased to Support Individuals with I/DD and Autism
Last week, The Arc of Massachusetts sent our budget requests to the state legislature for certain line items regarding the Governor’s FY’22 House 1 budget.
The Arc of Massachusetts Shares FY22 Budget Request With Legislature
Today, The Arc of Massachusetts sent our budget requests to the state legislature for certain line items after reviewing the Governor’s FY’22 House 1 budget.
COVID-19: Have You Spent Down Your Stimulus Payment?
In April 2020, The Arc of Massachusetts shared an email announcing the good news about the economic impact (stimulus) payments that were being distributed from the federal government, due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Arc of Massachusetts Releases FY22 State Budget Analysis
Thank you to Governor Baker, Secretary Sudders, and DDS Commissioner Ryder for a strong show of support for our community. Though we will advocate for more resources, we appreciate this budget for our constituents, especially considering the pandemic’s financial impact.