CPWD’s Mission Endures Beyond DEI Policy Changes
Image: A colored mandala with the words: Diversity, Equity and InclusionAs many of you have observed, the current administration is rolling back some DEI initiatives. The unknowns accompanying this change have created concern and fear for many of us. In the disability community, people are concerned that access to services and benefits could be impacted. Others are concerned about their safety, support systems, and place in society given their choice of identity. Though we can’t know for certain what the future will hold, what we do know is that CPWD will continue to provide access to services, support independent living, and champion equity and equality. At its heart, the intention of DEI is about building a community that champions inclusivity, provides resources, and equitable access to services and supports for people who may be marginalized or face social and financial barriers. This is an underlying ethos that shows up in efforts for justice, parity, equality and other work that seeks to close equity, income, racial and other social gaps. Whatever it is currently being called, or not being called; however it is being addressed currently socially and politically; the fundamental philosophy remains unchanged: building a world where providing greater support to those who need it most creates a more accessible and inclusive society for everyone. In the disability world, these principles are highly aligned with independent living. 
Image: Drawing of people reaching for fruit on a tree: Inequality = no one can reach; equality = they all have something to stand on but only the tallest can reach; equity = they each have something tall enough for their height to all reach; justice = the tree is accessible to all at ground level.
Independent Living Philosophy is rooted in the belief that people with disabilities have the right to self-determination, autonomy, and full participation in all aspects of society. It emphasizes that individuals with disabilities are the best experts about their own needs, and should have the opportunity to make decisions, pursue goals, and live independently with the necessary supports and resources. At its core, this philosophy challenges societal barriers and promotes inclusion, dignity, and respect for all. This is not something that can be erased by a policy change. Our inclusive, and equitable approach to independent living and access to services will persevere. CPWD’s mission is “to provide resources, information, and advocacy to assist people with disabilities in overcoming barriers to independent living.” This means, we are committed to dismantling barriers that reduce access, equity and inclusion, and work towards increasing access to services that enable people with disabilities to live independently and inclusively in our communities. We will continue to work hard to reduce barriers to accessing services. At CPWD, the only requirements to access services is to self-identify as a person with a disability and work toward a goal that supports independence. All of our services are offered at no cost to consumer. Our budget is made up of grants and fees for services, which are, in fact, reimbursement from Medicaid and the Veterans Administration for specific services provided. We will continue to advocate for equity. This could mean bringing the voice of people with disabilities to municipalities and transportation divisions; ensuring that curb cuts, bus stops, public buildings, and public transportation are accessible by individuals with disabilities. It could mean hosting accessible voting locations and training election judges in accessible voting. It could mean providing disability etiquette training to city and county employees, private companies and employers. We will continue to speak out for equality and inclusion. Our systems advocacy brings the voice and needs of people with disabilities to elected officials and representatives, outlining the need for resources, benefits, changes to policies and laws that will increase equality and social inclusions. In our communications - blog, social media, presentations, and more - we share about the ways that independent living and policy changes support individuals with disabilities and independence. This increases social awareness, and builds equality and inclusion in our communities. 
Image: A man who uses a wheelchair getting off a bus using a lift
These efforts are essential for dismantling the systemic barriers that have historically marginalized people with disabilities. By embracing and advocating for access, equity, equality, and inclusion, we can build a society where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is a norm, and all people have the chance to live with dignity. Those efforts will not change at CPWD.One of the most powerful actions individuals can take in the face of uncertainty is to focus on their own independent living goals. By advocating for yourselves, whether in accessing necessary resources, securing accommodations, or asserting their rights, you are also contributing to larger systemic change. Every step toward personal independence strengthens the broader movement for equity and inclusion. Society is formed by many voices, and your voice counts, if you speak it.CPWD will continue to uphold these values through advocacy, education, and support services. We believe an equitable society benefits everyone, and our commitment to this vision will not change. Together, we can build a future where independence is not a privilege but a right for all.
Image: The word exclusion with the first part "ex" rolling off while the letters "in" roll in to change it to inclusions. Also drawings of people with different abilities and ethnicities behind the letters
If you would like to get more involved in advocacy, and participate in actions to preserve equity, equality and access, and dismantle barriers, read this post and sign up to get involved.