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Blog

2025 Legislative Forum Wrap-Up

April 29, 2025

Panelists and attendees at the Minnesota Council on Disability’s 2025 Legislative Forum sit in a conference room as a speaker appears on a large screen with real-time captions and an ASL interpreter. A person using a wheelchair listens in the foreground.

In March, the Minnesota Council on Disability’s annual Legislative Forum brought together advocates, legislators, and community members to tackle the barriers that keep Minnesotans with disabilities from living, working, and moving freely. The conversations converged on a single reality: true independence only happens when the state invests in the people and systems that make daily life possible. Two priority issues—direct-care workforce shortages and the lack of on-demand accessible transportation—show exactly why that investment matters.

Plan, Pack, Practice: Your Emergency Preparedness Guide for Severe Weather Awareness

April 18, 2025

Damaged house surrounded by fallen trees after a storm. A broken tree trunk is in the foreground with an American flag draped over it.

April is Severe Weather Awareness Month, and the Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) wants to help you prepare for natural disasters. Spring in Minnesota can bring tornadoes, floods, fires, and other emergencies with little warning. That’s why now is the perfect time to review your emergency plan, restock your Go Bag and Shelter-in-Place bag, and practice your response. Planning ahead can ease anxiety and help you act quickly when it matters most.

Honoring Damon Leivestad: Strengthening Minnesota’s PCA Workforce

April 9, 2025

Three people in front of the Minnesota State Capitol. Damon Leivestad, in the center, uses a power wheelchair. The two women beside him hold signs that read “Home Care is Essential” and “Home Care Workers Care for America.” All three wear masks.

The Minnesota Council on Disability pays tribute to the late Damon Leivestad, a passionate advocate who dedicated his life to strengthening the personal care assistance workforce. In this blog post, we highlight Damon’s legacy and the introduction of the Damon Leivestad Direct Care Sustainability Act. The legislation he inspired addresses critical issues like fair wages for home care workers and financial barriers for people with disabilities. Read how Damon’s vision continues to shape policy and empower the disability community in Minnesota.

Lawmakers and Disability Advocates Connect at 2025 Legislative Forum

March 31, 2025

Wide view of the MCD 2025 Legislative Forum. A panel of speakers sits at the front of the room behind a Minnesota Council on Disability table banner. Attendees, including people using wheelchairs, listen from the audience. A large screen displays a live video feed, ASL interpreter, and captions. American and Minnesota flags are visible to the side.

Lawmakers and disability advocates came together at MCD’s 2025 Legislative Forum to discuss critical issues facing Minnesotans with disabilities. The event marked a return to in-person dialogue, creating opportunities for real conversations, shared stories, and policy engagement. Legislators from both chambers joined panels, listened to lived experiences, and deepened their understanding of disability issues in Minnesota.

Attorney General Ellison & Secretary of State Simon Bring Powerful Messages to Forum

March 27, 2025

Attorney General Keith Ellison speaking at the MCD 2025 Legislative Forum.

The Minnesota Council on Disability thanks Attorney General Keith Ellison and Secretary of State Steve Simon for speaking at our 2025 Legislative Forum. Their presence and powerful messages elevated the conversation around disability rights, inclusion, and civic participation—key themes that resonated with attendees. Read the full recap to learn how both leaders are working alongside the disability community to safeguard rights and ensure equal access.

Celebrating Black History and Embracing Disability Justice

March 4, 2025

Ashley Oolman. In the background are an American flag and the State of Minnesota flag.

Although Black History Month has ended, the Minnesota Council on Disability continues to recognize and celebrate Black History and its profound impact. In this special feature, Minnesota’s Chief Equity Officer, Ashley Oolman, shares a personal reflection on identity, inclusion, and the transformative impact of disability justice. She discusses the importance of representation and how intersectionality shapes a more caring society. Join the conversation and discover how disability justice creates space for all voices.

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