Celebrating 20 Years of Self-Advocacy in Los Angeles

The Self-Advocacy Board of Los Angeles County held its 10th self-advocacy conference on September 27-28, 2008. Attended by 170 people, "My Thoughts, My Voice, My Life Celebrating 20 Years of Self-Advocacy in Los Angeles", was both an educational event and a festive celebration.

Held at the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Airport Hotel, highlights included an Exhibit Fair; Opening Keynote Speaker Mark Hutchinson from DDS representing Governor Schwarzenegger; a photo and music montage of 20 years of self-advocacy history in Los Angeles; Dinner Keynote Speaker Joe Meadours from People First of California; and 8 educational workshops, all led by people with disabilities. Workshop topics included Relationships; Getting Involved in the Legislative Process; Making End of Life Plans (Advanced Directives); Lanterman Act Rights; Planning for Emergencies; Crime Prevention; and Healthy Cooking.

Area Board 10 staff and long-time facilitator Melody Goodman was honored for her 20 years of support to the Self-Advocacy Board of L.A. County.

Balancing the educational elements were some fun events, guaranteeing a memorable weekend for all. There were Self-Advocacy awards, the "Dating Game", a lively dance and karaoke with a D.J., and raffle prizes.

Said one participant: "Everything was perfect." Said another: "I learned a lot from the classes."

All conference details were handled by members of the Self-Advocacy Board. Their goal is to teach people with disabilities about their rights and to help more self-advocacy groups get started. They provide trainings, publish a newsletter, present one half day workshops on current issues, and hold monthly meetings. Facilitation and in-kind support is provided by Area Board 10.