Advocacy: Speaking Out

What is a 'Self-Advocate'?

A person who speaks up for himself or herself.

Someone who speaks up and lets others know what he or she thinks.

What is an 'Advocate'?

Someone who speaks up for others...

Someone who helps others to speak up for themselves.

What is 'Self-Determination?'

Self-Determination means that people:

make their own decisions
plan their own future
determine how money is spent for supports
take responsibility for the decisions they make

Self Advocacy means speaking for yourself and others. Self advocacy is being able to tell people what you what and need. Self advocates understand their rights. They are not afraid to use their voices.

Self Determination means taking control of your life and being able to make your own choices and decisions. Where do you want to live? How do you spend your time? What do you want to spend your money on?

Legislative Advocacy means going to the Capitol and telling Senators and Representatives (legislators) your story. Make sure they know what is important to you. Tell them what you want and need. There is power in numbers! The more self advocates work together and tell their stories. The more things can change.

For more information, go to Get the Power