MCD is moved by the passing of Dennis (Denny) Prothero last December. Denny’s story reminds our community that the PCA and homecare shortage is more than a workforce issue. We share his family’s belief that Denny’s legacy is bringing people together – advocates and leaders alike – to move legislation forward.
News
Business & Property Owners: Keep Disability Parking Spaces Clear
Businesses and other property owners must keep disability parking spaces and access aisles free from obstructions. In the winter, these obstructions include plowed snow. If they don’t, they could be fined up to $500 and be guilty of a misdemeanor. If you come across anything – including plowed snow – in any part of a disability parking space, call your local law enforcement.
Let’s Connect: Data Matters – Closing the Disability Data Gap
MCD encourages you to attend the Fall/Winter Let’s Connect Event hosted by the Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, and The Arc Minnesota. Did you know there’s a new COVID-19 booster for children and adults? It can help protect against serious illness from the omicron variant. Learn from MDH experts about the bivalent booster and how it works. Get answers to your questions, and gain resources to share in your community.
Remembering Lois Curtis, Disability Rights Advocate
On November 3rd, Lois Curtis died peacefully in her home surrounded by close friends and family. The disability community will remember her as the main advocate in L.C. v. Olmstead (the “Olmstead Decision”). The decision recognized that people with disabilities have the right to live in the least-restrictive environments. It also recognized that people with mental health challenges should, when possible, receive services in community integrated settings.
When Snow Starts to Fall, Clear Sidewalks and Curb Ramps
As the weather turns colder, MCD reminds you to keep your sidewalks clear of snow and ice. Sidewalks and curb ramps are lifelines for many people with disabilities and our senior community. When not cleared, they can limit their ability to get groceries, get prescriptions, go to work, and attend local gatherings. Improperly cleared snow can pile up and make sidewalks and curb ramps impassable. People using wheelchairs and other mobility devices must often travel in the street alongside traffic, a potentially life-threatening situation.
MCD Recognizes the Passing of Lois Curtis, Lead Plaintiff of Olmstead Decision
The Minnesota Council on Disability recognizes the passing of Lois Curtis, lead plaintiff in Olmstead v. LC. Lois was an integral part of one of the most important civil rights cases for people with disabilities. With the decision, the Supreme Court held that people with disabilities have a qualified right to choose the community they live in. The Court also held states must end the unnecessary segregation of people with disabilities.