YAB GAB - ON THE BLOG

  PART 2: VOTERS WITH DISABILITIES - WHAT ARE YOUR RIGHTS? with Special Guest Writer and Parent: Melissa Cruz All polling places must be physically accessible to persons with disabilities. The route from the accessible parking to and through the polling place must be able to be navigated by individuals using mobility devices such as wheelchairs, canes, and crutches. The process or methods of voting must also be accessible to voters with disabilities.  Some of the other rights of voters with disabilities include: ●       Access to a sample ballot in large print. ●       Any videos for use by voters must be closed captioned. ●       Voting privately and independently – voting equipment for voters who cannot use a paper ballot to vote privately and independently.  ●       Moving to the front of the line if the disability prevents the voter from waiting. ●    ...

PART 3: DIFFERENT WAYS TO COMPLETE YOUR BALLOT AND VOTE with Special Guest Writer and Parent: Melissa Cruz In the state of Connecticut, there are different ways to complete your ballot and vote. The article below describes these different methods: Manual Ballot In Connecticut, the most common way to vote in an election is by paper ballot also known as a manual ballot. On this ballot are the names of the candidates who are running for election and, occasionally, referendum questions. To complete the manual ballot, voters fill in small ovals by the names of the candidates they choose and their response to any referendum questions. The voter darkens the circle or oval next to the candidate’s name using a black or blue marker. They also mark their responses to the referendum questions. Once the voter completes all their choices, they place the ballot in the optical scan tabulator where it is counted and securely stored.   Advocacy Tip :  If the voter makes a mistake, they can req...

At one time in my high school life, I had to develop a lot of confidence. I had to set a boundary between myself and a friend who used to make me feel so small as a disabled person. It was tough, but I had to do it, and I was scared of what to say. However, before confronting her, I rehearsed what I wanted to say with my parents. This gave me enough courage to stand up for myself. After our conversation, I felt a whole lot better. It is never easy to set a boundary, but it was an eye-opener about the importance of my feelings and that I deserved to be loved and respected.  In hindsight, I have realized that confidence does not necessarily mean boldness. Being confident is doing the things you are afraid of doing simply because it is the right thing to do. To build confidence, it is good to start small. Practice the things you are going to say. Seek assistance from someone you trust. Have confidence in yourself. The more you stand up for yourself, the more confident you become. ...

Maraya Asks- “What was it like to be on a youth panel at the 23rd Annual Back to School Meeting?” Interviewer: Maraya, YAB Youth Engagement Coordinator Interviewee: Bella, Youth Leader & Self-Advocate  On Monday, September 14th, Bella performed a song she wrote at the 23rd Annual Bureau of Special Education Back to School Meeting.  Also, Bella participated in the opening plenary session as well as an afternoon breakout session along with peers, including Maraya. Maraya: " W hat was it like for you getting to share your real-life experiences na vigating through school with the educational leaders and districts ?"

  By Lily Watkins, Youth Advisory Board Intern I learned early on in life that to have a successful educational experience despite challenges in the classroom, I would need to make sure my environment and the tools I have access to are most suitable for me. My cane allows me to move freely and avoid obstacles in the crowded halls of the school, while high-contrast environments and screen readers let me experience the digital world around me by converting text to sound or organized, easy-to-read text. The removal of unnecessary obstacles like clutter helps to free up my mental energy, and organization is key to making sure that I can always find and use my supplies with as little hassle as possible. With these tools, I can make sure that I am in full control of my education and dedicated to learning. Essential Tools & Supplies for School Success: Assistive Technology: A computer with accessible software such as screen readers and high-contrast visual display tools. Mobility: A w...

By-Lily I see myself supporting others in the future. One of my biggest dreams is to become a public speaker. I am very passionate about advocacy, especially ensuring that children and individuals with disabilities are heard, included, and valued. I want to use my voice and my experiences to inspire people, to raise awareness, and to create positive change in my own community and beyond. In the following year, I hope to continue to build my confidence and skills as a leader and advocate. I want to become more involved with speaking opportunities, community events, and Youth Advisory Board activities. I want to learn new skills that will help me in the future, such as communication, organization, and independence. I want to continue to build positive relationships with those who support and encourage me to achieve my goals. In five years, I hope to be living independently, continuing my work as a public speaker and advocate. Living independently is very important to me because I want to...