Abstract
Disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right of the individual to participate in or contribute to society. Improving educational results for children with disabilities is an essential element of our national policy on ensuring quality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for individuals with disabilities.
This statement, made by the United States Congress in the 2004 reauthorization of IDEA, remains just as true today. Although the name of the law guaranteeing educational rights for children and youth with disabilities has changed over the past 50 years since its passage in 1975, its importance and impact have not. The IDEA has transformed the lives of millions by ensuring equal access to a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. Its impact extends beyond students with disabilities alone. Many students, families, and educators may be unaware of the role this law has played in creating more inclusive learning environments, more effective accommodations, and more engaging curricula for all learners.
This legislation did not come to pass without courageous advocates, with and without disabilities, raising their voices to inform the public and policymakers about their lived experiences and unmet needs. Educating others and advancing systemic change takes time. More recently, the first human rights treaty of the 21st century, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, took over 4 years to negotiate and an additional 2 years to enter into force. Adopted by the United Nations in 2006, this global beacon promotes and protects the full rights of people with disabilities worldwide.
I am grateful to those who came before me who were willing to share their stories, participate in demonstrations, sit through long meetings, and devote years, often decades, to shifting public opinion. Advocates such as Judy Heumann, Lois Curtis, and Ed Roberts refused to accept the limitations society placed on them. Today, a new generation of advocates is paving the way and opening doors in sports, academia, and entertainment. As educators, we too must be unwilling to accept arbitrary limitations placed on our students. We know that education is a cornerstone of our society and a critical pathway to opportunity.
Advocacy is not about grand gestures but about sustained, consistent efforts rooted in shared values. Our vision at CEC is “high-quality education that is inclusive and equitable for individuals with disabilities,” and our mission includes “advocating for education professionals and for individuals with disabilities, and/or gifts and talents.” There are many ways in CEC to become an advocate or to strengthen your advocacy skills. There are children and youth who need stronger advocates and who need support in becoming self-advocates themselves. As the Chinese proverb reminds us, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”
Consider the following opportunities in CEC for advocacy:
Contact your local CAN Coordinator
Participate in a virtual policy event
Visit the Legislative Action Center on our website to learn about current issues
Attend the Special Education Legislative Summit.
