Advocacy
Mental Health in the Workplace
By Jenna Martinez, ATI Advocacy Intern
April 30, 2024
INTRODUCTION
Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month is celebrated to end the stigma surrounding mental illnesses and educate the world on resources to treat these disabilities. Mental illness is classified as a psychiatric disability under the ADA. The Americans with Disabilities Act, or the ADA protects people with disabilities from being discriminated against based on their disability. Having a history of psychiatric disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities is protected under the ADA.
Earth Day & Disability
By Jenna Martinez, ATI Advocacy Intern
March 29, 2024
INTRODUCTION
Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22nd to emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe and clean environment on Earth. Climate change is a very real threat that disproportionately affects people with disabilities. A study prepared for the United Nations World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction found that individuals with disabilities are two to four times more likely to die or be critically injured during disaster situations. Additionally, most people with disabilities who experience natural disasters never return home. To prevent negative health effects such as heat/water illness and injury and death, it is important that people with disabilities are made aware of the possible impacts and create a plan targeted towards climate change and natural disasters.
Recognizing Disability Day of Mourning & Women's History Month
By Jenna Martinez, ATI Advocacy Intern
March 1, 2024
INTRODUCTION
Every year on March 1st, those within the disability community and their allies come together to recognize Disability Day of Mourning. This day remembers those with disabilities who fell victim to murder by their parents or caregivers. Since 2012, the Disability Day of Mourning has transformed into an international movement in which vigils are held to remember those who fell victim to filicide and to bring awareness to this very real and growing issue.
Governor Hochul’s 2024 NYS Budget Proposal Analysis
By Erin Vallely, ATI Advocacy Specialist
January 26, 2024
INTRODUCTION
At the end of January, Governor Hochul published her suggested budget for our state spending. While the budget covers all areas of state finance, we wanted to share some important points that impact disabled and chronically ill people. While there are some positives, we are expecting some losses and need people to share their feelings on these issues with their legislators.
