Fall 2002 Newsletter

Change Agents Needed

The process of making public policy includes formulating solutions to problems of general concern to the public and then transforming those solutions into law. Disability policy includes those laws specifically targeted at addressing the needs of persons with disabilities and their families. Also addressed are generic laws that look at the needs of non-disabled persons as well as persons with disabilities.

You have probably heard it said that those who are not part of the solution are part of the problem. Well, there is a need for people to get involved in the policy-making process. These people would be disability policy change agents. Are you a change agent? Among other things, change agents will ensure that our laws foster the inclusion, independence and empowerment of people with disabilities and their families.

Passion, anger, frustration and commitment are often necessary but not sufficient characteristics of a disability policy change event. In order to advance progressive disability policy, an effective disability policy change agent must channel these emotions and beliefs and develop skills and understanding.

Want to know more about being a change agent and really making a difference when it comes to disability policy? For more information, call (713) 520-0232 or E-mail cgeorge@bem.tmc.edu.