SB 6182, should it become law, would remove RHCs from State statute. It would clear one obstacle from the path of closing the RHCs. Yesterday, in the morning it was added to the Sen. Ways & Means schedule and then passed on to the Rules Committee without having had a public hearing. Last year, it was tabled for lack of sufficient time for testimony in it's hearing! Why would public testimony have been avoided this year?
Those perpetuating the closure battle surely must know that RHCs actually set the basis for community funding; and closing them very likely would result in less, not more, available community funding for those who are currently wait listed ! So, whose interests could the closure push really be meant to serve? Who stands to gain, especially financially?
Pitting people with developmental disabilities against each other is wrong. Period. Each person is important!. Why not give up the attack strategy so we can work toward understanding and mutual support? Why not, in deed?
Saskia
Thursday, March 4, 2010
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Text of a letter that I sent to Senators today - here is a link to the flyer mentioned:
ReplyDeletehttps://acrobat.com/#d=2U29cZ0hL42dvxClpfQBgg
I have attached a flyer regarding our son, Thomas. He is a resident at Frances Haddon Morgan Center. I understand there are a lot of issues and politics surrounding the use of RHCs for our disabled. The ARC has done a good job of focusing on our disabled family members that are able to live in a residential setting, but in advocating for those people, they have alienated the segment of the disabled community for which a residential setting is not safe or appropriate. The ARC has employed a divide and conquer strategy to advocacy for the disabled.
I used to be a supporter of the ARC until I realized the discrimination that they promote. Even prior to our son needing to live in a RHC and even before having a disabled child, I could see the benefits of maintaining RHCs so my opinion is not based on the fact that our son lives there. I do not understand why people who are advocates for our disabled are trying to take away the very supports that are needed to help our family members be successful and part of the community.
Yes, even living in a RHC is part of the community! It actually enables many to be more active than if they lived in a group home.
To go to Pandiecats' flier of her wonderful son, Thomas, just look to the list on the left and click on "Thomas@FHMC. You will be glad that you did! Great thanks, Pandiecats......Saskia
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