The American Academy of Developmental Medicine & Dentistry (AADMD) has joined disability and health advocacy organizations and health professions groups that are raising concerns about a recent U.S. Department of Justice memo that could weaken protections supporting community living for people with disabilities. Community living is an important opportunity, supported by advocacy organizations and groups like the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD), the national organization that advances evidence based best practices and connects the Nation’s UCEDDs including Oklahoma’s Center for Learning and Leadership (CLL) | UCEDD, and LENDs and IDDRCs.
Community-based services play an important role in health, independence, and quality of life. The AADMD statement explains why this issue has significant implications for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Please read AADMD’s full statement to learn more about the potential impact of this policy change and why the organization is calling for continued support of “core protections for people with disabilities.”
Please share your experience and perspective with your advocacy or professional organization leaders, and as appropriate please be sure to share your views with your local, state, and national elected representatives.
focus facts on Community Living: Special Edition