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My Self-Advocacy Journey

A person in a wheelchair holds a microphone, smiling at the camera. Wearing a blue dress and black cardigan, they embody the spirit of self-advocacy at the All Candidates Mixer, with ideas that champion DiversAbility in full view on the presentation screen behind them.

By Emily White

A person in a wheelchair holds a microphone, smiling at the camera. Wearing a blue dress and black cardigan, they embody the spirit of self-advocacy at the All Candidates Mixer, with ideas that champion DiversAbility in full view on the presentation screen behind them.I’m a part of the Self Advocates of Semiahmoo (SAS). My involvement has given me confidence in learning how to advocate for myself.

I enjoyed participating in events such as the Craft Fair and giving speeches at the Accessibility Walk and the All Candidates Mixer. Participating in the Craft Fair was a fun way to earn extra money for Christmas. It was also a great way to show the community that people with disabilities can be creative and enterprising.Giving speeches boosted my confidence and clarified the issues facing people with disabilities that were important to me. Afterward, I was able to network and meet lots of people.

It felt empowering because not everyone is aware of the challenges that face people with disabilities. Through sharing my story, I was able to build connections as well as advocate for myself and others.I have made connections and some great friends who will help me lead a more fulfilling life.

I am slowly gathering tools to help me achieve goals I previously thought were unattainable. I want to change my living situation, and being a part of the Self-Advocates of Semiahmoo has shown me that it’s important to advocate for myself.The Self-Advocates of Semiahmoo remind me that my identity goes beyond my disability. I have unique skills, and I can contribute to the world around me.

 

 

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Logo for SelfAdvocateNet featuring a drawing of the Earth surrounded by people holding hands. Text reads, SelfAdvocateNet and Our Voice, Our Strength in bold letters.
Red text on a transparent background reads A BIG Thanks to our Sponsors! in a bold, cursive font.
A top-view of a wooden desk with a coffee cup, notepad, pen, smartphone, and sticky notes. In the center, a world map with the text Whats your story? is written in a cursive font.
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