Because disability rights advocacy starts with you.
At the Minnesota Council on Disability, we believe that effective public policy begins with the people it affects most. Whether you’re new to advocacy or have much experience, your input matters—and we’re here to help amplify it.
Advocacy Updates
We monitor legislative issues that impact Minnesotans with disabilities—from health care access to transportation equity. Stay updated on what’s at stake and learn how you can take meaningful action.
Protect Medicaid and Essential Services
Federal budget proposals continue to threaten significant cuts to Medicaid, which funds critical disability services used by millions across Minnesota.
Learn what’s happening, how it affects your community, and what you can do to protect these essential supports.
Contact Your Legislators
A simple message can make a big impact.
One of the most powerful ways to advocate is by contacting your elected officials—via phone, email, or regular mail—and urging them to support or oppose legislation that matters to you.
To get started:
- Use the Legislature’s Who Represents Me tool to find your state and federal lawmakers.
- Use the Senate Staff and House Staff directories to find legislative assistants.
- When emailing, we recommend CC-ing the assistant to ensure your message is seen.
Advocacy Tools
Email or Letter Template
Tip: Make it personal. Lawmakers want to hear your story.
Subject: [Support/Oppose] [Bill Name or Issue]
Dear [Representative/Senator] [Last Name],
My name is [Your Name]. I live in [City], Minnesota, and I’m writing as a constituent and [brief description of your connection to disability].
I urge you to [support/oppose] [bill or policy name]. This issue is important to me because [brief explanation—why it matters to you, your family, or your community].
Medicaid, for example, funds home and community-based services that allow people with disabilities to live independently—supports not often covered by private insurance or Medicare.
Please share these concerns with your colleagues. With your leadership, we can protect the rights and well-being of Minnesotans with disabilities.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number] (optional)
Phone Script
Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I live in [Representative/Senator’s] district at [Address]. I’m calling to express my [support/opposition] for [policy/bill].
[In 1–2 sentences, explain the issue and how it affects you or your loved ones.]
I urge [Representative/Senator’s Name] to [support/oppose] this legislation and to help protect services that are essential to the disability community.
Thank you for your time.
Become Your Own Advocate
Partners in Policymaking
Partners in Policymaking’s renowned leadership and advocacy training program equips people with developmental disabilities—and their families—with the tools to make lasting change in their communities. Learn to navigate policy, present confidently to legislators, and become a lifelong advocate.
Making Your Case: A Guide to Legislative Advocacy
Created by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, this in-depth guide covers everything you need to know to become a more effective advocate.
You’ll learn how to:
- Schedule and prepare for meetings with lawmakers
- Testify at legislative hearings
- Use social media to build awareness
- Understand legislative etiquette and timelines
Whether you’re testifying for the first time or organizing a community campaign, Making Your Case (PDF) [mn.gov/mnddc] offers practical tools to support your advocacy journey.