I never really considered myself a political activist. I mean, I support social justice efforts at church; but my standing up and saying something to influence a politician’s decision seemed a bit far-fetched. It is much easier to write a check, collect cans, or buy non-perishable food every other month. That all has changed recently.
As I learn more about how the decisions being made in Boston and Washington are affecting the people in the programs I direct, I am becoming more and more astute in picking up the phone and calling a Representative or Senator’s office. In the beginning, having a script provided by some agencies was helpful. However, the more I call, the easier it is to tell meaningful stories that hopefully will affect the outcome.
These stories are your stories. The story of every family who has a member with a disability, who has had to struggle with state and community budgets that never seem abundant enough to pay for the services needed for a full life. Stories of the changes families experience when a catastrophic event affects one of them. Stories of the difficult decisions that are required too often, and that are too often based on the lack of resources. There are also heartwarming stories of triumph and success when it all falls into place and works.
Everyone who is touched by The Arc of Opportunity’s work in the community will be sorely affected by the proposed cuts to Medicaid dollars. Some already have been. You may have never thought yourself a political activist either. Even so, it is time to make a call. Make a call for you, for me, for everyone who depends on The Arc.