2019: Disability Day at the Capitol was a time to discuss diverse needs

Access Press
3/10/2019 by Jane McClure

Calls for inclusion and independence rang out as hundreds of self-advocates and their allies gathered February 19, 2019 for Disability Day at the Capitol. The first of the Minnesota disability community’s big legislative rallies drew people determined to make changes in their lives and the lives of others.

“You have the voices that matter,” said Jillian Nelson, community resource and policy advocate for Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM). “We have so much to say.”

Nelson and other speakers urged those present to tell their stories to state lawmakers as they work for changes in policies and programs. “Our voices will make us the captains of our own destinies,” she said.

While the familiar theme of telling one's stories to legislators was often repeated, the 2019 Disability Day took on a sense of urgency. The rally and other upcoming rallies become more important not just with legislative action deadlines coming up. The financial needs spelled out come in the face of the state's revised economic forecast, which was released February 28, 2019.

Handmade signs are a staple of Disability Day at the Capitol.

Minnesota has a roughly $1 billion surplus. While that may encourage those seeking additional funds for many programs, it is worrisome that the surplus is one-third less than the nearly $1.5 billion budget surplus projected in November. Slower economic growth and lower than expected tax collections have played a role in the downward trend.

Many disability rights advocates argue that with any state surplus, programs that have languished for years need support. Gov. Tim Walz’s proposed budget, which was released in mid-February, had much for community members to like in terms of support for health care, special education and mental health. The $49.5 billion biennial budget price tag for the next two years. It includes a boost for Minnesota schools, local communities and health care programs, and would continue a health care provider tax that is to sunset in 2020.

So many people showed up for pre-march preparations February 19, 2019 at the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) cafeteria, organizers ran out of poster board. Advocates used the remaining supplies to make smaller signs before they gathered for the march to the capitol. The line of marchers at one point extended from the MNDOT building all the way to the sidewalk leading to the capitol.

Several legislators attended to let people know that their voices are being heard and that they are working to address concerns on an array of disability issues. “We need to make the disability community a priority… It’s time to say, damn it, listen to us! Support us! Fund us!” said Rep. Nick Zerwas (R-Elk River). His speech was met with loud cheers.

Echoing Nelson, Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL-Rochester), said, “We are experts about our own lives and our own struggles.” She urged those present to share their stories with state lawmakers.