From the Self-Advocate’s Desk
Published On: April 22, 2025
From the Self-Advocate’s Desk
In 2025 we launched From the Self-Advocate’s Desk as a space for self-advocates to share their thoughts and perspectives directly with The Arc of Northern Virginia community. Ian Allan, the self-advocate who helped bring this idea to life has generously shared his thoughtful and powerful words to launch this project. Lauren Von Elm, our 2025 BroadFutures intern, has also joined the discussion with her keen observations on neurodivergent life experiences. We also welcome Ben Breaux, Justin Boatner and George Rogers to our group of talented and passionate writers.
The Arc of Northern Virginia strongly supports the free expression of the views and experiences of writers who have lived experience with disability. The sentiments expressed in these pieces reflect the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily represent The Arc of Northern Virginia.
If you have thoughts to share in this space, please email Lucy.Beadnell@TheArcofNOVA.org.
Reflection on the Recent Changes to OSERS and IDEA: A Neurodivergent’s Perspective
From Caution to Opportunity: Reframing the Autism Policy Debate
Seeing the Unseen: Understanding the Autistic Double Bind
Beyond the Myth: Understanding Why Disabled People Struggle to Access Employment
SNAP-Ed Cuts: A Public Health and Community Challenge
Reflections on the Recent HHS Autism Announcements: A Neurodivergent Perspective
Rolling Back Section 503: Why Disability Accountability Still Matters
The Future of Certificates of Completion in Florida: Examining H.B. 1105 and Its Implications
The Weight of Many Selves: Disability Through the Lens of Intersectionality
Tiny Home Communities: A Scalable Solution for Inclusive Housing in Virginia
Public Media at a Crossroads: Disability Equity, Fiscal Constraints, and a New Home for Sesame Street
From Programs to Possibilities: Lessons Learned in Preparing for Work and Life
Executive Order 14321 Is Now In Force: What It Means for Disability Equity
In Defense of Inclusive Housing: Why Tiny Home Communities Are Essential for Disabled Adults
Response to Keep Our PACT Act (S. 343): Advancing Equity Through Full Funding for Title I and IDEA
Response to H.R. 899 – To Terminate the Department of Education
Eliminating Age Disparity
From Struggle to Strength: A Lifelong Pursuit of Educational Growth
Apprenticeship Pathways Act of 2025: A Personal and Policy Reflection
Autism CPR
Affirming Accessibility: An Analysis and Reflection on S. Res. 240 and H. Res. 569
The Unthinkable
“Last Chance or Lost Cause?” — A Reflection on Belonging, Behavior, and the Margins of Education
Is It Different if You Put a Patch on It?
Seeing Pediatrics as an Adult with Disabilities
The D-Word
Regarding the Critical Needs and Benefits of Medicaid for a Nonspeaking Autistic Epileptic
Beyond Wi-Fi: Why the Homework Gap Persists in Connected Homes
Charter Schools and Special Schools: A Personal and Systemic Reflection
Self Care: Struggles, Structures, and Showers
A Voice Unfolds in the Shadow of Critique
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act Is Now Law: What This Means for Vulnerable Communities
Taste vs. Texture: Perception, Assumptions and Questions
What Does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Mean to You?
Reflection on the “No Kings” Protest and the Enduring Legacy of Disability Rights Advocacy
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act Advances: Implications for Vulnerable Communities
The Quiet Fight: Finding Our Place in a Loud, Changing World
From Voice to Impact: The Role of Storytelling in Disability Advocacy
Carrying Difference: A Story of Belonging and Barriers
The Disappearing Pathway: Job Corps, Disability, and the Right to Meaningful Work
Looking Beneath the Surface: Understanding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Response to the Lottery Selection for the Academies of Loudoun from a Former Student
In Defense of Public Broadcasting: Why NPR and PBS Must Remain Funded
When Justice Is Delayed for Disabled Students, We All Lose: A Response to the Supreme Court Disability Case
An Open Letter to the Secretary of Health and Human Services
Response to the Passing of Victor Perez
Response to The Department of Human Health Services Director’s Recent Press Conference
Response to the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities
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