As we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it’s crucial to shine a light on ableism and the fight for disability rights. This episode of our podcast welcomes Peter Morin, an attorney from Special Needs Law Group of Massachusetts, who has dedicated his career to advocating for the vulnerable and ensuring they receive the essential services they need.
Ableism, a form of discrimination that views individuals with disabilities as inherently inferior, inhibits access to various facets of life such as healthcare, government, education, housing, religion, media, legal system, employment, and entertainment. They discuss the importance of spreading awareness and using the hashtag #ADA33 to move the conversation forward.
Peter’s journey, from a municipal attorney to a special needs advocate, underscores the importance of providing meaningful choices in care for people with disabilities. It highlights the fact that navigating state agencies and organizations is no easy task, but by becoming your best advocate through strategic planning, asking the right questions, and filling out forms accurately, the process can be made easier.
In addition, Peter emphasizes the role of urgency in cases. Informing the agency of a crisis situation can potentially prioritize your case and provide needed waivers or exemptions. It’s a reminder that good communication and strategic negotiation can have a significant impact on outcomes.
The podcast also explores the difficulties families face when proving a loved one’s disability. The paperwork can be daunting, but it’s crucial to the process. The episode highlights the importance of keeping all documentation and how the right paperwork can help ensure access to essential services.
Peter’s emphasis on gratitude resonates throughout the conversation. He talks about the power of a simple ‘thank you’ and how it can forge stronger bonds with those working to improve the world for individuals with disabilities. The act of expressing gratitude, no matter how small, can make a big difference in the lives of those striving for equality.
This podcast episode is a call to action for all of us. Each one of us can contribute to changing lives, one ‘starfish’ at a time. The fight against ableism and for disability rights is far from over, but with advocates like Peter Morin leading the way, we are moving in the right direction. Join us in this crucial conversation and be a part of the change.
Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us online.