How To Be Strong and Supportive: Advocacy (Part 2 of 2)
I’ve given you the first step about advocacy; here is some information for your next steps. Do you know what ADA stands for? It stands for Americans with Disabilities Act, formed on July 26, 1990. The purpose of this act is to prevent discrimination by companies, agencies, and others against those with disabilities. The goal of the ADA is to help people with disabilities participate in everyday activities, covering areas like employment, leisure activities, and state and local government programs and services.
Another federal agency is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This agency enforces and provides guidance on the employment provisions of the ADA, supporting laws that protect those with disabilities. One way to be supportive is to continuously understand and research the laws and acts that protect the rights of individuals with disabilities. Do you know what the laws are in your state (at the local level) and how they affect you?
You can also volunteer time, money, or knowledge to help others who are blind. Travel Visions Aloha now has a section on their website where you can sign up to volunteer, which is a great place to start. Anyone can be an advocate with a positive mindset, regardless of the cause they choose to support. I’m doing my part by sharing information that can help blind people through my blog on Travel Visions Aloha. Ms. Marri and Travel Visions want people to know that we are capable of living full and happy lives, so keep reading my blog to find out about more adventures! —Kelly
