NCIL is the longest-running national cross-disability, grassroots organization run by and for people with disabilities. Founded in 1982, NCIL represents thousands of individuals with disabilities and organizations, including Centers for Independent Living (CILs), Statewide Independent Living Councils (SILCs), and other organizations that advocate for the human and civil rights of Americans with disabilities.
Independent Living creates a new social paradigm and emphasizes that people with disabilities are the best experts on their own needs, that they have crucial perspective to contribute to society, and are deserving of equal opportunity to decide how to live, work, and take part in their communities.
NCIL assists our members to build their capacity to promote social change, eliminate discrimination, and create opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in the legislative process to affect change. NCIL promotes a national advocacy agenda set by its membership and provides input and testimony on national disability policy. NCIL envisions a world in which people with disabilities are valued equally and participate fully.