A Message from Theo Braddy: New Beginnings
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This is Theo Braddy, Executive Director of the National Council on Independent Living, bringing you a new message. This one I am calling “New Beginnings”.
As we prepare to welcome 2025, I find myself reflecting on the transformative journey of NCIL and the Independent Living movement. Each year brings new challenges, new victories, and new opportunities to deepen our commitment to building a world where people with disabilities can live with dignity, choice, justice, and full participation.
Two quotes have been on my mind as we turn the page to this next chapter. The first reminds us of the recurring nature of progress and resilience. It reads, “There will come a time when you believe everything is finished — that will be the beginning.” How many times have we reached a milestone, only to discover it is not the conclusion, but the foundation for what comes next, a new beginning? This truth resonates in the Independent Living movement, where every victory, every new law, a critical policy change, or even an attitude shift — sets the stage for the next wave of advocacy and action.
The second quote offers perspective on the enormity of our work. It reads, “You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it.” None of us can do it all, and none of us must carry the weight of this movement alone. But each of us has a role to play, a responsibility to shoulder, and a unique voice that strengthens our collective power. This reminder both grounds and inspires me as I think about the path ahead for NCIL and our community of people.
2025 is more than just the start of a new year; it is an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the values that anchor our movement and the vision that propels us forward. Together, we will continue to fight ableism, break down systemic barriers, and advocate for policies that reflect the lived experiences of people with disabilities.
We will empower Centers for Independent Living, Statewide Independent Living Councils, disability advocates, and allies to strengthen their work and make a lasting impact in their communities.
This is also a time to embrace the power of beginnings — of reimagining what’s possible and taking bold steps forward, not letting tradition hold us back but using it as a springboard.
As Executive Director, I pledge to listen, to lead with humility, and to honor the legacy of this incredible organization while helping to chart its future. I know that the road ahead will not always be easy, but I am confident that together, collectively, we will rise to meet the challenges before us.
I am deeply grateful for each of you — staff, board members, volunteers, advocates, partners, and supporters — who continue to show up, speak out, and fight for justice. The Independent Living movement is what it is because of you, and it will be what it must become because of us all.
As we step into this new year, let us carry forward the hope, courage, and determination that have brought us this far. Here’s to the beginning of a powerful new chapter in our movement as we embrace disability justice.
Together, we can and will continue to create a future where everyone will not just survive but thrive!
This is Theo Braddy, Executive Director of NCIL, wishing you blessings for the new year! Be well.
Theo Braddy
Executive Director
National Council on Independent Living
About NCIL
NCIL is the longest-running national cross-disability grassroots organization, driven by and dedicated to people with disabilities. Since its founding in 1982, NCIL has represented thousands of organizations and individuals, advocating tirelessly for the human and civil rights of people with disabilities across the United States.
