I recently learned that the Trump administration cut funding for programs that serve the disabled across the nation. Many in this population, particularly those with developmental disabilities, cannot challenge these cuts.
Because I had a sister with autism, I advocated for more than 50 years for better living conditions for her and countless others who lived in homes operated by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services or private contractors. Often, these individuals had no family to speak on their behalf.
I always shook their hands, hugged them, and spoke to their needs. Their smiles warm hearts, and they cry when they are hurt, just as we do.
At a young age, my sister was labeled an imbecile, but with the help of many good people she able to work and earn money to pay her own way.
We need programs to help these people find work, train them on the job, and to help them learn simple everyday tasks, to learn how to get to a bus, socialize, even how to gain access to a bathroom. Trump’s actions to reduce federal oversight and funding related to the Americans with Disabilities Act jeopardize these programs.
Gail Orzechowski
Florence