Empowerment in Access Committee Mission Statement
The Mission of the NCIL Empowerment in Access Committee is to empower every voice within the Independent Living and Disability Justice movements to be heard and validated, to move collectively as one network, and to foster accountability within our organization and society as a whole.
NCIL Statement of Inclusion
At the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), we are deeply committed to upholding the values of inclusion in all of our work. We recognize that disability is an integral part of human diversity, and we are dedicated to ensuring that all people have the equitable opportunity to thrive, engage, and succeed in society.
As an organization led by and for disabled people, we prioritize creating a culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered. We understand that inclusion is not just about participation; it’s about meaningful involvement, accessibility, and ensuring that barriers—both visible and invisible—are actively dismantled.
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where people with disabilities are seen and heard, where they are afforded the same opportunities as anyone else, and where their lived experiences are honored and celebrated. We strive for a society that values accessibility as a fundamental right and acknowledges disability as a rich and diverse aspect of human identity.
Measuring Our Progress
We believe in accountability. We continuously evaluate our programs, policies, and practices to ensure that we are meeting the needs of our members and making meaningful progress toward a more inclusive, equitable, and accessible society. We gather feedback from our members to identify areas where we can improve and to celebrate the successes that help us move closer to our goals.
We also collaborate with other organizations and advocates in the disability rights movement to amplify our efforts, share resources, and push for systemic change. By working together, we can ensure that the voices of disabled people are heard at all levels of decision-making, from local communities to national policy.
Moving Forward
Inclusion is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process. We know that the work of creating a truly inclusive society is never finished. At NCIL, we are committed to continuing this journey, evolving our understanding of what accessibility and equity mean, and constantly advocating for a world where people with disabilities can fully participate, live independently, and thrive.
Our future is one where all disabled individuals are empowered to create the lives they envision for themselves, free from discrimination, prejudice, and barriers. Together, we will continue to break down the walls that have held us back, celebrate our shared humanity, and ensure that every member has the tools and support they need to succeed.
NCIL is proud to be a part of this transformative journey and is dedicated to being a strong and unwavering voice for the rights, dignity, and inclusion of all disabled people.
