California SILC

https://conta.cc/4143gi5

December 2023 State Independent Living Council (SILC) Meeting (virtual) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 4, 2023 SILC Full Council Meeting December 5-6, 2023 The California State Independent Living Council (SILC) encourages public comments during the August council meet

Call for Applications: Emerge Summer 2024 Hybrid Disability Studies Workshop for Disabled Activists, Artists, Cultural Producers, Filmmakers, and Academics | Paul K. Longmore Institute on Disability The Paul K. Longmore Institute on Disability at San Francisco State University proudly announces Emerge, a three-year initiative made possible thanks to a generous grant from the Mellon Foundation. This support will allow the Longmore Institute to lead a four-week workshop for 10 emerging Disability...

Universal Design (UD) features can help employers attract and maintain a diverse workforce that includes workers with disabilities. UD features are integrated into devices, environments, processes, and systems to make them useable to a broad range of people. https://askjan.org/topics/univdes.cfm

In Memoriam: Sandra Day O'Connor (1930-2023)

It is with profound sadness that we reflect upon the life and legacy of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, a trailblazer, a legal luminary, and a true champion of justice. Justice O'Connor, born on March 26, 1930, shattered glass ceilings and left an indelible mark on the legal landscape of the United States.

Sandra Day O'Connor made history in 1981 when she became the first woman to ascend to the highest court in the land, the United States Supreme Court. Her nomination and subsequent confirmation symbolized not only a personal triumph but a significant step forward for gender equality in the legal profession. Throughout her tenure on the bench, Justice O'Connor demonstrated a keen intellect, a commitment to fairness, and an unwavering dedication to the principles enshrined in the Constitution.

A jurist of remarkable pragmatism and insight, Justice O'Connor's opinions often reflected a nuanced understanding of the complexities of the law and its impact on people's lives. One of her notable contributions was the pivotal role she played in the Olmstead v. L.C. decision, affirming the rights of individuals with disabilities to live in the community rather than being confined to institutions. This landmark ruling underscored her commitment to ensuring that the law protects the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of ability.

In the Olmstead case, the Supreme Court addressed the rights of individuals with disabilities to receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs, rather than being unnecessarily institutionalized. Justice O'Connor, along with the majority of the Court, ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, stating that unjustified isolation of individuals with disabilities in institutions is a form of discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

This decision helped to reinforce the principle of community integration for people with disabilities and contributed to the ongoing efforts to promote inclusion and independence. While O'Connor did not specialize in disability law, her role on the Supreme Court and her contributions to decisions like Olmstead have had a positive impact on the rights of individuals with disabilities in the United States.

Beyond her legal accomplishments, Sandra Day O'Connor will be remembered for her grace, humility, and tireless efforts to bridge divides. She possessed a unique ability to build consensus, fostering collegiality and cooperation among her fellow justices. Her dedication to the rule of law, judicial independence, and public service set an exemplary standard for all who follow in her footsteps.

As we mourn the passing of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, let us celebrate the enduring legacy of a remarkable woman who changed the course of history. May her pioneering spirit inspire generations to come, and may her contributions to justice and equality continue to resonate in the hallowed halls of the Supreme Court and in the hearts of those she served.

In remembrance. Rest in Power.

As the weather gets colder, people with disabilities may face additional challenges in staying safe, comfortable, and mobile. Here are some tips to help you navigate the colder months:

Dress appropriately: Ensure that you or your loved one with a disability is dressed warmly. Layer clothing to trap heat and choose thermal, moisture-wicking fabrics to stay dry. Don't forget gloves, hats, scarves, and warm socks.

Footwear: Invest in warm, non-slip, and supportive footwear to prevent slips and falls, especially in icy or snowy conditions. There are adaptive footwear options available for various mobility impairments.

Mobility aids: Maintain mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, or canes in good working condition. Consider equipping them with winter accessories like snow tires, ice grips, or snowshoes to enhance stability.

Clear pathways: Keep walkways and driveways clear of snow and ice. Utilize snow removal services or ask for assistance from neighbors and friends.

Use mobility aids with care: If using a wheelchair or scooter, ensure they are equipped with snow tires or other winter accessories. Drive cautiously in icy conditions, and be prepared for obstacles like uneven sidewalks or snowdrifts.

Plan ahead: Check weather forecasts and plan outings during warmer parts of the day if possible. This can reduce exposure to extreme cold.

Accessible transportation: If you rely on public transportation, check for accessible options and confirm they are operating in winter conditions. Paratransit services may be available in some areas.

Warm up your vehicle: If you drive, warm up your car before heading out, and make sure it's equipped with snow tires or chains. Consider installing hand controls if necessary.

Emergency kit: Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including warm blankets, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, and other essentials. Make sure your cell phone is charged and that you have a charger with you.

Prepare for power outages: People who rely on medical devices may need a backup power source or alternative arrangements in case of power outages.

Stay informed: Sign up for weather alerts and stay informed about any emergency services available to individuals with disabilities in your area.

Seek assistance: Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or neighbors when needed, whether it's with snow removal, transportation, or other tasks that become challenging in cold weather.

Dress for visibility: In darker, winter conditions, wear brightly colored or reflective clothing to increase visibility to motorists and others.

Stay active: Physical activity can help maintain mobility and warmth. Indoor activities like swimming or exercise classes can be an excellent way to stay active in the colder months.

Healthcare considerations: If you have specific healthcare needs, such as medications or medical equipment, ensure that you have an adequate supply to last through any potential winter disruptions.

Prepare for emergencies: Create an emergency plan tailored to your specific needs, including communication and evacuation strategies.

Remember that winter weather can be particularly challenging for people with disabilities, so planning and preparation are key to staying safe and comfortable during the colder months.

Empower the Season by Shopping Thoughtfully from Disability-Owned Small Businesses

This holiday season, make a meaningful impact by supporting disability-owned small businesses. By choosing unique and innovative products from these enterprises, you’ll not only find thoughtful gifts, but also contribute to a more inclusive marketplace. Your support empowers entrepreneurs with disabilities, breaking down barriers and fostering a community that values diversity. This holiday, let your purchases carry a powerful message of inclusivity by choosing to shop from disability-owned small businesses, making a positive impact on both the lives of entrepreneurs and the broader community.

Inside the guide you’ll find:

Clothing and apparel by No Limbits and Girls Chronically Rock
Food and beverages including gelato, cookies, coffee and smoked meat
Dog treats, grooming service and supplies
Small gifts including handmade soap, arts and crafts supplies, tarot and herbalism
Disability owned marketplaces to shop
Accessible travel and getaways
Artistic workshops for healing and transformation
And a list of Disability Owned services for a variety of personal and professional needs!

View and Download the Guide and start shopping today!

DOBE Gift Guide - Disability:IN This curated guide features offerings from certified Disability Owned Business Enterprises (DOBEs) to help you find the perfect gift for anyone on your list and shop this Holiday Season!

Today is Cyber Monday.

Cyber Monday has become one of the busiest — and most lucrative — online shopping days of the year. The National Retail Federation estimates that almost 64 million people will be looking for deals today. But for shoppers with disabilities, it can be a lot harder to take advantage of sales and promotions online.

For disabled shoppers, some Cyber Monday deals are out of reach - Marketplace Many e-commerce sites lack accessibility options for disabled consumers who need tech-enabled assistance that accommodates their needs.

https://www.fastcompany.com/90813899/how-we-can-make-thanksgiving-travel-better-for-people-with-disabilities

How we can make Thanksgiving travel better for people with disabilities Boarding and deboarding, wheelchair storage, and even bathroom use can cause worries for air travelers with disabilities. Advocates are pushing for legislation to smooth the process.

Small Business Saturday is an annual shopping holiday that takes place on the Saturday following Thanksgiving in the United States. It falls between Black Friday and Cyber Monday and is designed to encourage consumers to support small, locally-owned businesses during the holiday shopping season. The event was first conceived by American Express in 2010 and has since gained widespread recognition and support.

The primary goals of Small Business Saturday are to promote local businesses, stimulate local economies, and foster a sense of community. It highlights the importance of small businesses as drivers of economic growth and job creation in communities across the country.

Supporting small businesses on Small Business Saturday is a fantastic way to boost your local community's economy. However, if you have a disability and find that these businesses are not accessible, there are still several ways you can contribute and promote inclusivity. Here are some ideas:

Online Shopping: Many small businesses have an online presence. You can shop from the comfort of your home and support local businesses through their websites or e-commerce platforms. This way, you can explore their products, make purchases, and have items delivered to your doorstep.

Curbside Pickup and Delivery: If visiting the physical store is challenging due to accessibility issues, check if the business offers curbside pickup or delivery services. Many small businesses have adapted to these options, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can place orders over the phone or online and have your items brought to your car or home.

Phone Orders: If online shopping isn't accessible or convenient for you, consider placing orders over the phone. Many small businesses are happy to take your order and payment information over the phone and arrange for pickup or delivery.

Social Media Promotion: Help promote your favorite small businesses on social media. Share their posts, write reviews, and tell your friends and followers about your positive experiences. This kind of online support can boost a business's visibility and attract more customers.

Advocate for Accessibility: Reach out to the small businesses that you would like to support and express your concerns about their lack of accessibility. Encourage them to make changes that will enable you to visit their physical locations in the future. Sometimes, businesses may not be aware of the accessibility issues they have, and your feedback can prompt positive change.

Shop with Accessibility in Mind: Whenever possible, choose to support businesses that prioritize accessibility. Research which small businesses in your area are committed to making their stores, websites, and services accessible to all customers. When businesses see that their efforts are recognized and valued, they may be more inclined to invest in accessibility improvements.

Support Accessible Marketplaces: Consider shopping at accessible marketplaces or stores that are known for their commitment to inclusivity. Many large retailers are working to make their stores and websites more accessible, which can provide a more inclusive shopping experience.

Local Support Groups: Connect with local disability support groups or organizations that may be able to provide assistance or resources for shopping at small businesses. These groups often have information on accessible businesses and can help you find the products or services you need.

Small Business Saturday is about celebrating and supporting local businesses, and your participation can make a meaningful difference. By taking advantage of accessible options and advocating for greater inclusivity, you can continue to be a patron of these businesses and encourage positive changes in your community.

Good morning and Happy Black Friday! The SILC office remains closed. Staff will return on Monday.

Today is commonly known as "Black Friday", a day when customers can find great deals and coupons on holiday items at the stores. You'll often see there are usually big crowds at these sales. Forbes offers an article on how we might support people with disabilities on Black Friday.

How To Support People With Disabilities On Black Friday And Giving Tuesday How can you be sure the disability-connected businesses or charities you want to patronize are truly responsive to the disability community and consistent with your values?

PD: Happy Thanksgiving animated orange and brown turkey on pale yellow background. It is standing behind a cornacopia filled with wheat and 2 pumpkins.

Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at the California SILC! Our office is closed so staff can spend time with their families. We will return on Monday.

PD. Fall leaves over a stream with a small waterfall. White text says "Vision Statement: To influence policy and access to service delivery for all individuals with disabilities in California"

The SILC office will be closed on November 23 and 24 in observation of the Thanksgiving holiday. We will return on Monday.

Thanksgiving is a time to come together, give thanks, and celebrate the bonds of family and friendship. However, it's essential to remember that not all our loved ones experience the holiday season in the same way. Many of our guests may have disabilities, and it's our responsibility to ensure they feel welcomed and included in our Thanksgiving festivities. Lets explore some simple yet meaningful ways to create an inclusive Thanksgiving for everyone.

Communication is Key:
Before the big day, open the lines of communication with your guests who have disabilities. Reach out to them and ask if there's anything specific they might need to feel comfortable. This could include dietary restrictions, accessible seating, or even discussing any potential sensory sensitivities.

Plan for Accessibility:
Ensure your home is accessible for all your guests. Make sure there are ramps or an alternative accessible entrance, clear pathways for wheelchairs or mobility devices, and accessible restrooms. This way, your guests won't have to worry about navigating your space.

Flexible Seating:
Consider providing a variety of seating options. Some guests may require more space or specific seating arrangements, while others may feel more comfortable in a cozy corner. Having a mix of seating options can help everyone find their ideal spot.

Allergen Awareness:
Given the importance of food in Thanksgiving celebrations, make sure to inquire about any dietary restrictions and food allergies your guests might have. Create a menu that accommodates these needs while still offering a variety of delicious dishes.

Visual and Auditory Considerations:
Thanksgiving can be a sensory overload for some. Be mindful of loud noises, such as blaring televisions or noisy kitchen appliances, which can be overwhelming. Dimming lights, creating a quiet space, or using noise-cancelling headphones can provide a peaceful escape for your guests who may need it.

Encourage Participation:
Make sure your guests with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all activities, from meal preparation to storytelling. Show interest in their contributions, and create a welcoming environment where they feel valued and involved.

Be Patient and Respectful:
Remember that everyone's comfort level varies. Some guests may need more time to engage, and it's essential to be patient and understanding. Avoid making assumptions about their capabilities and preferences.

Offer Assistance:
Extend a helping hand, but always ask first. Offer assistance with serving food, getting drinks, or navigating your home. However, respect their autonomy and only step in when requested.

Create Inclusive Games and Activities:
Thanksgiving is not just about the food; it's also about spending quality time together. Plan activities and games that are inclusive and accessible to all your guests. This could be as simple as board games or storytelling.

Share Information:
Help educate your family and friends about the needs and preferences of your guests with disabilities. This way, everyone can contribute to creating a more welcoming and accommodating environment.

Remember that making guests with disabilities feel welcome is not just a one-time effort but a commitment to inclusivity. By showing empathy and understanding, we can create a Thanksgiving celebration that truly embodies the spirit of gratitude and togetherness.

This Thanksgiving, let's give thanks for our diverse and wonderful families and friends and make sure that no one feels excluded from the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Inclusion is the truest expression of gratitude.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and inclusive Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Day crafts can be a wonderful way for children with disabilities to express their creativity and get into the holiday spirit. Here are some craft ideas that can be adapted to accommodate various disabilities and skill levels:

Handprint Turkey Cards: Create Thanksgiving cards by making handprint turkeys. You can use paint or ink to make a handprint, and then add colorful feathers, googly eyes, and a beak to turn the handprint into a turkey. https://www.makelifelovely.com/turkey-handprint/

Thankful Tree: Make a tree using branches and a pot or container as the base. Cut out leaves from colorful paper, and each person can write or draw something they're thankful for on a leaf. Attach these leaves to the tree with adhesive putty or clips.

Felt Pumpkin Decorations: Cut out pumpkin shapes from orange and green felt. These can be simple or more intricate, depending on the individual's fine motor skills. Add details like a face, stem, and leaves. They can be glued or stitched together.

Thanksgiving Placemats: Create personalized placemats using large sheets of paper or cardboard. Participants can decorate them with markers, crayons, stickers, or cut-out pictures from magazines to represent what they are thankful for.

Pine Cone Turkeys: Collect pine cones and use them as the body of a turkey. Attach colorful feathers, googly eyes, and a beak to create a turkey. You can use a hot glue gun to make this easier.

Paper Plate Turkeys: Start with a paper plate as the turkey's body. Paint or color the plate, add googly eyes, a beak, and colorful paper feathers. This is a fun and easy project for all skill levels.

Turkey Handprint Wreath: Trace handprints on colorful construction paper or felt and cut them out. Arrange them in a circular pattern to create a handprint wreath. Add a turkey's head, beak, and feet to complete the wreath.

Autumn Leaf Art: Go on a nature walk to collect colorful fall leaves. Then, create a collage or arrangement with the leaves, either gluing them onto paper or laminating them to preserve their colors and shape.

Table Centerpiece: Design a Thanksgiving centerpiece using craft foam, silk flowers, and a foam base. Create a unique design by arranging and decorating these items to make a beautiful table decoration.

Thanksgiving Themed Jewelry: Make bracelets or necklaces using beads with Thanksgiving-themed colors and charms, like tiny pumpkins, turkeys, or leaves. This craft can be adapted to different motor skill levels.

Remember to adapt these craft ideas to the specific abilities and preferences of individuals with disabilities. Use adaptive tools and techniques as necessary, and ensure a safe and supportive environment for crafting. Encourage creativity and have fun while celebrating Thanksgiving!

CUTEST Turkey Handprint Craft + Poem Printable Make a cute turkey handprint with paint that parents will treasure for years! Easy tutorial + FREE turkey handprint poem download.

It's the heart of autumn, and time for you to get outdoors to enjoy what nature has to offer. Get outside and simply enjoy time being out in nature. You could make a scavenger hunt and find a bunch of different things outside such as squirrels, acorns, leaves, etc… and mark them off on your list as you see them.

https://www.accessiblenature.info/?page_id=152

https://www.alltrails.com/us/california/ada

https://www.traillink.com/stateactivity/ca-wheelchair-accessible-trails/

https://emerginghorizons.com/favorite-wheelchair-accessible-california-trails/

California Accessible Easy Nature Trails | Accessible Nature Guide to places in California with wheelchair accessible or very easy trails in nature. Emphasis is contemplative outdoor experiences with minimal obstacles.

Are dropping temperatures and rising energy costs keeping you down?

Fall and Winter Energy-Saving Tips Tips for saving energy and money during the fall and winter.

The CA SILC is in the process of developing our next State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) and want you to get involved. People with disabilities should be actively involved in the development of the SPIL for several important reasons:

Expertise and First-Hand Experience: People with disabilities possess valuable expertise and first-hand experience when it comes to the challenges, barriers, and needs they face in daily life. Their insights are crucial in identifying the most effective strategies to enhance independent living for individuals with disabilities.

Self-Determination: The concept of self-determination is fundamental to the independent living movement. Involving people with disabilities in the development of SPIL respects and promotes their right to make choices and decisions about their own lives. It empowers them to have a say in the policies and programs that directly impact their independence.

Customization: The needs and preferences of people with disabilities can vary significantly. Involving them in the SPIL development process ensures that the plan is more customized and responsive to the unique needs of the community it serves. One-size-fits-all solutions are often inadequate in addressing the diverse needs of this population.

Accountability and Transparency: Including people with disabilities in the planning process fosters transparency and accountability. It enables them to hold the relevant agencies and organizations responsible for implementing the SPIL accountable for their commitments and ensures that the plan aligns with the genuine needs of the disabled community.

Community Building: Active participation in SPIL development promotes a sense of community and belonging among people with disabilities. It allows them to connect, share experiences, and work together toward common goals, which can lead to a stronger and more supportive community for people with disabilities.

Legally Mandated: The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires the inclusion of people with disabilities in the planning and implementation of policies and programs that affect them. It is not just a matter of good practice but a legal obligation.

Efficiency and Effectiveness: SPILs are intended to improve the quality of services and supports for individuals with disabilities. By involving the target population, the resulting plan is more likely to be efficient and effective in meeting their actual needs and goals.

Better Decision-Making: Including people with disabilities in SPIL development ensures a more well-rounded and informed decision-making process. This leads to policies and programs that are not only more inclusive but also more effective in achieving the desired outcomes.

Involving people with disabilities in the development of the State Plan for Independent Living is essential for promoting inclusivity, self-determination, and the creation of policies and programs that genuinely meet the needs and aspirations of individuals with disabilities. Their participation is not only a matter of rights and ethics but also a practical necessity for achieving the intended goals of independent living programs.

If you are interested in joining a SPIL Workgroup and helping to draft the language of the next SPIL, contact Carrie at [email protected]

What is seasonal affective disorder?

Many people go through short periods of time where they feel sad or not like their usual selves. Sometimes, these mood changes begin and end when the seasons change. People may start to feel “down” when the days get shorter in the fall and winter (also called “winter blues”) and begin to feel better in the spring, with longer daylight hours.

In some cases, these mood changes are more serious and can affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. If you have noticed significant changes in your mood and behavior whenever the seasons change, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression.

In most cases, SAD symptoms start in the late fall or early winter and go away during the spring and summer; this is known as winter-pattern SAD or winter depression. Some people may experience depressive episodes during the spring and summer months; this is called summer-pattern SAD or summer depression and is less common.
What are the signs and symptoms of SAD?

SAD is not considered a separate disorder but is a type of depression characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4 to 5 months per year. Therefore, the signs and symptoms of SAD include those associated with major depression, and some specific symptoms that differ for winter-pattern and summer-pattern SAD. Not every person with SAD will experience all of the symptoms listed below.

Symptoms of major depression may include:

Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day
Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
Experiencing changes in appetite or weight
Having problems with sleep
Feeling sluggish or agitated
Having low energy
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Having difficulty concentrating
Having frequent thoughts of death or su***de

For winter-pattern SAD, additional specific symptoms may include:

Oversleeping (hypersomnia)
Overeating, particularly with a craving for carbohydrates
Weight gain
Social withdrawal (feeling like “hibernating”)

Specific symptoms for summer-pattern SAD may include:

Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
Poor appetite, leading to weight loss
Restlessness and agitation
Anxiety
Episodes of violent behavior

Get Immediate Help

If you or someone you know is in immediate distress or is thinking about hurting themselves, call the National Su***de Prevention Lifeline toll-free at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You also can text the Crisis Text Line (HELLO to 741741) or dial 988.

Steps to keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year-Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic This type of depression is related to changes in seasons and begins and ends at about the same times every year.

Disability in early America: a history lesson

Thanksgiving in early America, dating back to the early 17th century, was a significant cultural event that marked the Pilgrims' survival and their gratitude for a bountiful harvest. In 1620, the Pilgrims, seeking religious freedom, arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and faced a harsh winter that claimed many lives. With the help of the Wampanoag Native Americans, they learned to cultivate crops like corn, beans, and squash, which formed the basis of their Thanksgiving feast in 1621.

The first Thanksgiving was a three-day celebration attended by approximately 50 Pilgrims and over 90 Wampanoag, reinforcing a sense of unity and mutual respect. The menu included venison, fowl, seafood, and the crops they had grown together. It was a feast of thanksgiving, not just for the harvest, but also for the survival of the Pilgrims in their new homeland.

Thanksgiving in early America embodied the spirit of cooperation, gratitude, and resilience in the face of adversity. It would later become a symbol of American unity and thankfulness, evolving into the national holiday we celebrate today, marked by feasts, parades, and the expression of gratitude for the blessings of the year.

Disability in early America was a largely unexplored and poorly documented aspect of society. The limited records that do exist provide insights into how individuals with disabilities were perceived and treated during that time.

Many people with disabilities in early America faced significant challenges. There was a lack of medical understanding, and disabilities were often stigmatized. People with physical disabilities, such as mobility impairments or limb differences, often had to rely on family and community support for their daily needs.

The role of individuals with cognitive disabilities was not well defined. They might be cared for by their families or end up in almshouses or poorhouses, where conditions could be harsh.

Despite these challenges, there were instances of resilience and community support. Some communities, particularly small, close-knit ones, may have been more inclusive and supportive of individuals with disabilities.

It's essential to recognize that early American society's understanding and treatment of disability varied significantly depending on the region, culture, and time period. The lack of comprehensive records makes it difficult to paint a complete picture of disability in early America, but it is clear that individuals with disabilities faced various challenges and opportunities within their respective communities.

Disability in Early America Notre Dame University professor Laurel Daen taught a class about how disability was defined after the American Revolution and how federal laws impacted disabled people.