This week I would like to share some history and facts concerning how Independent Living emerged within the United States. Independent Living is the most important goal to all disabled people. It provides a meaningful and fulfilled life. It works hand and hand with an individual’s self-worth, self-esteem, and the opportunity of many advancements personal and in the workforce. The achievement of financial, emotional, social, career and personal independence gives someone a sense of accomplishment that eventually changes how individuals view themselves and how others in and out of the community view them. All of the information noted in this article I found and researched on various Google searches and prepared this article.
The History of the Independent Living Movement:
The Independent Living (IL) movement started in the early 70s when the Berkeley Center for Independent Living in California was founded by Ed Roberts and others with disabilities that were attending the University of California at Berkeley. Ed Roberts application for enrollment (and others) to the University of California at Berkeley was turned down several times because of his disability. In 1975, California Governor Jerry Brown appointed Ed as state Director of California’s rehabilitation agency, the same institution that once deemed Ed too severely disabled to ever work. Ed served as their director for eight years.
What Started the Independent Living Movement?
By the 1960s, the civil rights movement began to develop, and disability advocates saw the opportunity to join forces alongside other minority groups to demand equal treatment, equal access, and equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
Fundamental Principle:
This history of the independent living movement stems from the fundamental principle that people with disabilities are entitled to the same civil rights, options, and control over choices in their own lives as people without disabilities.
What is an Independent Living Model?
The independent living model of disability is similar to the social model of disability. Its focus is more specific to advocating for the independence of people who are disabled. People with disabilities are their own experts on their needs and what services they require.
What are some Independent Living Skills?
• Personal Hygiene
• Dressing and Clothing Care
• Health Care
• Cooking, Eating, and Nutrition
• Home Management and Home Safety
• Financial Management
• Personal Growth, Awareness, and Problem Solving
• Community Access
Eight (8) reasons to become and stay independent:
• It boosts your self-confidence and self-esteem
• It decreases the burden you place on family, friends, and society
• It turns you into an asset to help other people
• It enhances your reputation among friends, work colleagues, and various people within the community
• It leads to financial freedom
Source of Information: Various Google Searches
Until next time, stay safe and well
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