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New Information | Why | Who and How | Where and When | Past Retreats
Queer + Disability = Community Allies
The Disability Rights communities and the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) communities have many similarities and differences. First and foremost, there are members of each in both communities. The Michigan Disability Rights Coalition (MDRC), with the generous support of the ARCUS foundation, defines the moment as now for these two communities to come together to Build bridges, close gaps, join forces, reach out and find common ground.
New Information
Peg Ball and Nancy English both attended Building Bridges retreats. The retreats opened their eyes to the reality of the separation between the disability and LGBT communities and they committed themselves to building bridges between the two communities. Nancy English invited Peg, a member of both the LGBT and disability communities, to speak at Michigan Pride in June 2007. Peg excitedly accepted; however, there was one issue - the stairs at the Capitol Building were a barrier to Peg being fully included in the Pride event. Nancy English began raising funds to purchase a wheelchair ramp with the hopes of creating an inclusive environment. With the support of both communities, a historical moment took place on June 30, 2007 - an ADA compliant ramp was used on the Capitol steps. Click here to read Peg's speech.
Why?
Each of our communities are subjects of gross discriminations, legal, social, and economic. Within both communities, members of the other is often invisible, unwelcome, and misunderstood. By coming together to Build bridges, close gaps, join forces, reach out, and find common ground, we educate ourselves to serve and strengthen our communities. We meet one another and create a ground that is safe, committed, and secure. We explore the possibilities of joining together to advocate for needed change legally, socially and economically.
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Who and How?
Leaders and activists from organizations are invited to attend a weekend retreat facilitated by members of both communities and hosted by MDRC. This free weekend retreat offers participants structured dialogue, and free flowing exercises as well as unstructured moments to interact socially around a meal, at play, and in one-on-one conversations. Participants will acquire information and ideas that will challenge their organizations strive for an inclusive community and build a more just world.
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Where and When?
So far, MDRC has held 2 retreats:
- Parallels and Intersections - 2005
- Building Bridges - 2007
MDRC is hoping to hold more retreats in the future. Please check back for updated information or contact Carolyn Lejuste at clejuste@prosynergy.org or 1-800-760-4600 ext. 321 for more information.
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Past Retreats
- The first retreat called Parallels and Intersections was held in December 2005. Learn about the retreat, view pictures, read articles, and hear reflections.
- A second retreat called Building Bridges was held in February 2007. Learn about the retreat, view pictures, and hear reflections.
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