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