April 2020
“Hope is being able to see that there is light in spite of all the darkness.”—Desmond TutuDear Friends, I hope this message finds you healthy and finding ways to keep your spirits up. It is a different world than it was at the beginning of March, and none of us understood how much our lives would change so quickly. I am taking refuge in the music, comedy, and art offered by people from all over the world like this student performance: https://boston.cbslocal.com/2020/03/23/coronavirus-berklee-virtual-orchestra-what-the-world-needs-now/ .
I am grateful for the good work of our friends and allies at SARTAC (The Self Advocacy Resource and Technical Assistance Center) who are sharing critical information about this crisis and how to stay safe and connected with each other. This link tells about different ways to use video calling to see our friends, family and co-workers: SARTAC Info on Using Technology to Meet .
In the Northeast we had our first Regional “Zoom” call on March 25th. It was wonderful to see everyone and hear how we’re coping with staying home. We will have these video calls weekly every Wednesday at 2PM. Here’s a video from Mike Rogers of SANYS showing how to use Zoom: Video on how to use Zoom. Here’s the information to join our weekly Zoom check-ins.
April 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 MASS NE REGIONAL WEEKLY CHECK INS
Join Zoom Meeting by video:
Meeting ID: 457 078 340
To join by phone only
Dial: 16468769923 and enter the Code: 457078340# US
Though technology will never replace seeing each other in person, I sure am glad we have ways to be together through this crisis.
Zoom allowed us to keep moving forward together on projects like Supported Decision Making -- task force members are finishing a draft Supported Decision making Agreement that we hope to share with all of you later in the spring. Supported Decision Making Task Force Members visited their legislators at the Arcmass/MDDC Legislative Reception to advocate for the SDM bills.
Derek, Cynthia, and Kamisha continue research on the topic of Transfer of Rights for students. At the beginning of the month Therese LaPorte spoke about her experiences and self-advocacy on a panel promoting Self-Determination at Lesley University. The All for One group met in Merrimac and talked about selling artwork to promote Autism Acceptance.
We also need strong self-advocates to share your stories so hospitals and our wider communities treat people with disabilities as a priority. Let’s keep our community strong, healthy and connected through this trying time. In the Northeast we are gathering messages of support to share on our Facebook Page – please contact bridget@ma-advocates.org if you want to submit a short video message, a note or drawing.