Able SC March 2025 News

Recently a staff member shared this thought with us: "Interdependence isn’t weakness—it’s power. In the disability movement, interdependence and collective care are about recognizing that we all need support. They’re about building communities where we uplift, protect, and care for each other because no one thrives alone. When we move together, we move further." This month has been an exercise of our collective power.

Section 504 Lawsuit:

Our community is steadfast in defending our rights. In late February, we sent a letter to SC Attorney General Alan Wilson and launched a petition urging the protection of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Within 36 hours, we gathered over 500 signatures; by delivery, that number exceeded 800, with many sharing personal stories of 504’s impact. Today, the petition nears 1,000 signatures. Thanks to your determination, the lawsuit remains on pause.

Medicaid Threats:

Days later, we learned of federal threats to Medicaid—an essential lifeline for millions with disabilities. Congress approved a budget framework that includes billions in Medicaid cuts over the next decade. In response, we collected 50 personal stories within hours and delivered them to the U.S. Senate, including Senators Graham and Scott, urging them to reject the proposal. We continue gathering stories to educate policymakers.

Employee Appreciation:

This month also marked Employee Appreciation Day. At Able SC, our team is more than appreciated—they are vital. Their dedication and disability pride empower our community, helping individuals achieve their goals, inspiring youth, and educating employers and leaders about accessibility and acceptance. They advocate for systemic change, bring loved ones home from institutions, and protect rights. But most of all, they live our mission every day through their lived experience and sense of purpose.

We are strong when we work together. Dependence on each other is not something to be ashamed of, but something to embrace. Our community are change-makers, and "when we move together, we move further."

Disability and Women's History Month

Disabled women have historically played a crucial role in advocating for disability and women's rights and challenging barriers. Despite facing discrimination based on gender and disability, disabled women leaders have strived for inclusion, accessibility, and justice. Here are 10 disabled women from history and today, making a difference:

• Judith "Judy" Heumann (1947–2023) – A pioneering disability rights activist, Heumann played a key role in passing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and led the 504 Sit-in, the longest nonviolent occupation of a federal building.
• Haben Girma – The first Deafblind person to graduate from Harvard Law School, she is an advocate for disability rights and accessibility in technology and education.
• Alice Wong – Founder of the Disability Visibility Project, Wong is a writer, activist, and media maker dedicated to amplifying disabled voices.
• Vilissa Thompson – A disability rights consultant and creator of Ramp Your Voice!, Thompson focuses on how race, gender, and disability justice work together.
• Harriet Tubman (1822–1913) – Best known for her work as an abolitionist and Underground Railroad conductor, Tubman also lived with epilepsy and chronic pain from a head injury she sustained as an enslaved child.
• Frida Kahlo (1907–1954) – The famous Mexican artist lived with chronic pain and disability due to polio and a severe bus accident, expressing her experiences through powerful self-portraits.
• Emily Ladau – A writer, activist, and author of Demystifying Disability, Ladau educates others on disability inclusion and accessibility.
• Tammy Duckworth – A U.S. senator and Iraq War veteran, Duckworth is a double amputee and advocate for disability rights, veterans, and mothers.
• Stella Young (1982–2014) – An Australian disability activist and comedian, Young challenged perceptions of disabled people, coining the term "inspiration porn" to critique patronizing narratives.
• Andrea Dalzell – The first registered nurse in a wheelchair in New York, Dalzell is a fierce advocate for accessibility and inclusion in healthcare.

Celebrating disabled women during Women’s History Month elevates their voices and achievements. By recognizing their contributions, we can create a more welcoming world where all women feel valued and empowered.

Midlands Gives is coming: you don't have to wait!

On May 6, 2025, we are participating in Midlands Gives, a region-wide initiative that brings the community together to raise money and awareness for local nonprofits in the Midlands.

Guess what? You don’t have to wait until May 6th to make an impact! You can start giving today to help us do more of what we do best: equip people with disabilities, educate others, and advocate for our community!

Why Give early?

Immediate impact: Your early gift helps us build momentum, boosting our chances to win prizes – every dollar counts!

Inspire others: Your generosity now can inspire others to give, creating a wave of generosity throughout the community.

Donate now: Visit MidlandsGives.org and search Able South Carolina to donate!

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