National Caravan for Disability Freedom and Justice Makes a Significant Stop in Charlotte

On a rainy Thursday morning, over fifty people braved the weather to come together at The Nest, North End Community Coalition’s premises in Charlotte. They congregated to welcome the National Caravan for Disability Freedom and Justice (NCDFJ), a group of individuals with disabilities and allies from across the USA. Their goal? To bring to light the progress that has been made in empowering individuals with disabilities and the immense effort required to secure full inclusion and freedom.

Disability Rights North Carolina: Pushing for Change

Disability Rights NC, in collaboration with their allies from various channels of disability activism and social change, made this event possible. They erected tents for local vendors and organizations to disseminate information and resources, all aimed at educating attendees about the current state and federal issues affecting those with disabilities.

NCDFJ’s Nationwide Journey

Since its inception in April, the NCDFJ has been traveling across the country, with their journey highlighting the leaps in the fight for inclusion and freedom for disabled individuals, while illustrating the changes required for complete societal integration. Their pit stop in Charlotte followed similar events in Raleigh and Durham, where they marked the 25th anniversary of the US Supreme Court’s Olmstead decision. This landmark ruling established the rights of disabled individuals to choose to live in their communities, as opposed to being confined in institutions.

Loud and Proud: Advocacy and Awareness

Judith Brown, the founder and executive director of Project 70Forward, talked about the essence of the Olmstead act. She said, “The concept of self-determination, that all people, including people with disabilities, have the right to pave their own path with access to assistance if and when needed is the backbone of the Olmstead act.”

Local activists, poets, and organizations took to the stage to share first-hand testimonials about the importance of self-determination and rallied for continued advocacy on the part of individuals with disabilities. Some of the organizations represented at the event included Project 70Forward, NC Statewide Independent Living Council, Disability Rights & Resources, Faith CME Church, and NC Council on Development Disabilities, among others.

Rev Up’s Voting Campaign was in attendance, ensuring attendees’ voter registrations were up-to-date as part of their effort to enhance the power of the disability vote. “Educate yourself and stand up for yourself and your families, vote in every election you can, speak to elected officials, report that discrimination,” were among Brown’s closing remarks. She implored, “I ask you, no, I beg you to celebrate Olmstead by fighting with me and for the rights of others.”

The Journey Continues

The NCDFJ is set to continue its caravan tour through the Midwest and South. The journey will culminate with a final stop in New York in October.