MCD welcomes Jill Westberry, our new Civic Engagement Director. Jill brings a rich mixture of experiences and perspectives to the role. Throughout her career, Jill has developed deep expertise in disability rights and services while maintaining a strong commitment to community engagement. Her experience spans direct service in education, ADA compliance and disability services in workforce development, and policy implementation as an ADA Coordinator. At each step, she has worked to strengthen connections between institutions and the communities they serve. In her role as Civic Engagement Director, Jill will build on this experience to advance disability rights across Minnesota, working with communities and government agencies to ensure people with disabilities have full access to public policy discussions and other civic activities.
News
Public Policy Update for November 2024
The 2024 election results have set the stage for an interesting 2025 legislative session, with significant implications for disability policy. The Minnesota Legislature will have remarkably close margins in both chambers. In the Senate, the Democratic party maintains its one-seat majority (34-33). In the House, preliminary results indicating a rare 67-67 split between the Democratic and Republican parties. The close margins in both chambers mean legislators will have to carefully negotiate policy priorities. Disability-related legislation has a history of bipartisan support, so it should do well in a legislature looking for consensus.
Tips for Inclusive Holiday Gatherings
The holiday season is a time for coming together, and true celebration means ensuring everyone can fully participate in the festivities. Creating an inclusive environment where all guests feel valued and appreciated not only strengthens bonds but also celebrates the diversity within our communities. Through thoughtful planning and consideration, we can make our holiday gatherings more accessible and welcoming for everyone. When we take steps to create inclusive celebrations, we’re doing more than just hosting an event—we’re building spaces where everyone can share in the joy and warmth of the season.
MCD 2025 Legislative Forum
Join us for MCD’s 2025 Legislative Forum on Monday, January 27. This hybrid event brings together disability advocates, legislators, and community members to shape disability policy in our state. Attend in person at the Minnesota Department of Revenue Building (600 N. Robert St., St. Paul) or virtually via Zoom. The Legislative Forum is an opportunity for the disability community to share lived experiences directly with legislators and help develop collaborative solutions. More details, including the full agenda and additional details, will be available soon. Be part of creating positive change for Minnesotans with disabilities.
How You Can Continue to Celebrate NDEAM
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is coming to a close, but that doesn’t mean the advocacy and awareness have to end. MCD and the disability community fight for inclusive employment opportunities year-round. There are countless ways to celebrate NDEAM. These ideas are just a few ways to provoke conversations, inspire change, and celebrate employees with disabilities every day of the year.
A Brief History of NDEAM
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) has a rich history, beginning in 1945 as a week dedicated to supporting World War II veterans returning to the workforce. Over the decades, it has grown into a month-long campaign celebrating the contributions of all workers with disabilities. This October, we encourage employers to implement inclusive workplace policies to foster an environment where every employee can succeed.