I’m joining the Disability March for several reasons. First, the concept is brilliant! As a social justice and political activist, it’s disappointing that I can no longer participate in marches. The routes are too long, the standing is too much, and the pace is too fast. My mobility impairment leaves me exhausted and in serious pain after such an ordeal. The activist community seems dominated by young, able bodied folks who don’t get that marches are not accessible and inclusive. Why should we be precluded from participating, and miss out on the fun, camaraderie, and impact of these events? Second, the activist community doesn’t seem to get that disability rights is a social justice issue, and should be considered right alongside racial and gender justice, sexual orientation, class, age, immigration status, etc. I hope this virtual action will raise visibility for our community. Third, the Republicans and their new king are already trying to crush Americans’ access to health care, a problem that will possibly harm us more than any demographic. We must resist!

I work as Social Justice Coordinator for a Unitarian church near Los Angeles—and I love it! http://neighborhooduu.org/people/stephanie-ballard/ When the Women’s March in DC, and later in LA—were announced, I realized there were segments of the population who would be excluded. My friend with a young child is an example. There are other reasons folks may not want to march: too shy, get triggered by marches, skeptical of their efficacy,  etc. So my friend and I convinced my employer, Neighborhood UU Church in Pasadena, to offer an onsite alternative to the March. Here’s the final result: https://www.facebook.com/events/997161900388052/

What are my disability credentials? I actually claim three: mobility impairment, metastatic cancer, and depression. You can see that, although these disabilities may slow me down sometimes, none have stopped me from raising hell! I’m over 60 years old and with maturity comes freedom, as I feel I have less to lose and now care less what others think. Also, have you noticed it’s women who are in the forefront of this Resistance? Nasty Woman are leading the way!