NCIL Mourns the Loss of Mike Ervin

We join the disability community in mourning the loss of Mike Ervin, a brilliant advocate, writer, and organizer.

Mike had a sense of humor and an unshakable belief that people with disabilities can and should have access to all that life has to offer.

He was a powerful voice in efforts to reframe disability narratives. Many will remember him for his widely read blog, Smart Ass Cripple.

Mike founded a group called Jerry’s Orphans to fight the harm the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Labor Day Telethon caused to disabled people. In 2005, Jerry’s Orphans created a documentary called The Kids are All Right.

Mike was especially proud of the successful campaign he and fellow activists led to win accessible public transportation in Chicago before the Americans with Disabilities Act became law.

Mike Ervin headshot. He has a wry smile, is seated in a power wheelchair, and is wearing a plaid shirt.

Mike lived the values he championed, demonstrating every day that a person with significant disabilities could live fully and boldly on their own terms.

We invite you to read the tribute from Access Living honoring his remarkable life and legacy.