At the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), advocacy is at the heart of everything we do. NCIL amplifies the voices of people with disabilities by advocating with our network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and Statewide Independent Living Councils (SILCs) at the national level. We engage in systems advocacy by working directly with policymakers, providing education on disability issues, and mobilizing our grassroots network.
Advocacy and Public Policy Committee (staffed by Jessica Podesva)
The Advocacy and Public Policy Committee is co-chaired by the NCIL Vice President and the Chair of the CIL Capacity Committee. Its members also include the chair of the Regional Representatives Committee; the chair of the Empowerment in Access Committee; and the chairs of NCIL’s topic-specific Advocacy and Public Policy Subcommittees (described below). The co-chairs also have discretion to add additional members when they feel appropriate. The Advocacy and Public Policy Committee undertakes activities as directed by the NCIL Governing Board and selects recipients for NCIL’s annual advocacy awards.Â
The subcommittees within NCIL’s Advocacy and Public Policy Committee focus on specific areas affecting people with disabilities, including civil rights, healthcare, housing, and transportation. They monitor legislative, administrative, and judicial developments to educate NCIL members and advocate for effective responses.
Advocacy and Public Policy Subcommittees:
- ADA / Civil Rights Subcommittee
- Disability & Disaster Subcommittee
- Healthcare / Long Term Services & Supports Subcommittee
- International Subcommittee
- Housing Subcommittee
- Transportation Subcommittee
CIL Capacity Committee (staffed by Jessica Podesva)
The CIL Capacity Committee works to enhance the effectiveness and growth of the Independent Living (IL) network by providing resources, training, and support to strengthen their organizational and advocacy capabilities. The committee is responsible for analyzing, interpreting, and advocating for needed changes to statutes and regulations that impact CILs and SILCs. Membership requires consistent contribution from all members, including routine attendance at monthly meetings, active participation in discussions, and support with research and planning efforts. By building capacity, sharing best practices, and fostering collaboration, we empower CILs to grow and create impactful change, ensuring that people with disabilities can live independently and advocate for their rights.
See also:
