Disabled Not Disposable is a free virtual conference for health care providers who seek increased knowledge and training on providing quality and dignified care for patients with disabilities. The hope is that this conference will result in decreased health inequities faced by the disability community and improve trust with a community that disproportionately requires complex care. The half-day virtual event will involve four educational sessions between the medical community and the disability community.
News
Disability Inclusion and the Holidays
During the holidays, it’s important to consider accommodations your friends and family might need during celebrations. Whether it’s a holiday party, family gathering, or worship service – it is important to understand your friends and family’s needs while creating an environment that is inclusive and welcoming to those with disabilities. Ensuring inclusivity during the holidays is one way to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. It is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity among your family and friends and strengthen the bonds that make those gatherings meaningful.
Clarifying Changes to Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities
The Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) has learned that an article we published in our October newsletter contained incorrect information about the Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities (MA-EPD) program. We offer the following clarifications.
Planning for an Emergency with Your Support Network
September is Emergency Preparedness Month. This year, as every year, the Minnesota Council on Disability reminds you that disasters and emergencies disproportionally impact people with disabilities. To minimize the effects of any emergency, planning is essential. Communication with your support network is critical for people with disabilities when planning for an emergency. The people physically closest to you—family you live with, roommates, your neighbors, and coworkers—are likely to be the ones around you when an emergency happens. Identify the supports you need to take shelter or evacuate in an emergency, and then create an emergency plan with them.
Covid-related Questions? Contact the Covid Community Coordinators!
Concerned about the current increase of COVID-19? Get information about how to protect yourself and others. For more information about vaccinations, boosters, free PPE, and test kits, as well as access to therapeutics if you become ill; reach out to the Metropolitan Center for Independent Living Covid Community Coordinator team. Call 1-800-409-5594 or email MDH@mcil-mn.org.
A Poem on the State Fair by Adina Burke
Each year at the State Fair, the Minnesota Council on Disability brings members of the disability community and fairgoers together for questions, conversations, and fun. Among the many special guests who appear at our booth, we are proud to feature artists with disabilities. Poet Adina Burke is one of this year’s artists. We are happy to bring you a poem on the State Fair by Adina.