Poetz defined self-advocacy, led way for many others

Clifford Linus Poetz, a pioneering figure in the self-advocacy movement and a key advocate for disability rights, passed away on March 25 at the age of 71. Poetz, who lived with cerebral palsy, dyslexia, and various disabilities, played a crucial role in shifting the lexicon from offensive terms like "mentally retarded" to "disability."

His activism began in the 1970s when he formed the group Telling It Like It Is, supported by The Arc's predecessor organizations. Poetz became the first person with developmental disabilities to address a congressional subcommittee in 1973, testifying on the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act.

He led local, state, and national disability rights groups, contributing to various initiatives such as Remembering With Dignity. Poetz received numerous awards for his advocacy work, including the Governor's Award of the Minnesota State Council on Disability and the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation's Self-Empowerment Award.

His impact on legislative agendas, community-based employment, and inclusive language remains profound, leaving a lasting legacy in the disability rights movement.