A few weeks ago, I stood in the halls of the Colorado State Capitol, surrounded by families, advocates, and individuals with disabilities. It wasn’t just another day—it was a day to advocate for Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) and ensure the voices of those who rely on these essential services were heard loud and clear.
Mikelle, as always, saw the opportunity. Dressed with confidence and armed with a stack of business cards, she wasn’t just there to advocate—she was there to network, promote her business, and connect with decision-makers. While many of us were focused on policy, she reminded us that advocacy and entrepreneurship go hand in hand.
On the other hand, Maryann was experiencing the capitol for the first time. The grandeur of the building, the buzzing energy of hearings and testimony—it was a new world for her. But as she listened to families sharing personal stories, the weight of our mission became clear. This wasn’t just about policies and numbers, but real lives and futures.
Mikelle, true to form, didn’t want to leave. To her, this was where things were happening, where people were making decisions that mattered. And for her, being present meant owning her space—not just as an advocate, but as a businesswoman, a leader, and a force to be reckoned with.
Why Showing Up at the Capitol Matters
That day reminded us why we must show up—whether for testimony, silent support, or to make sure lawmakers see us, hear us, and remember us when they vote on funding for LTSS. When services are on the chopping block, our presence sends a clear message: these supports are not optional but essential.
Without LTSS, people with disabilities face:
- Loss of home and community-based services, leading to unnecessary institutionalization.
- Fewer employment and independence opportunities restrict the ability to contribute to society.
- Increased pressure on family caregivers, pushing them beyond their capacity to provide care alone.
Budgets are about values. And when we show up, we remind legislators that our communities value inclusion, dignity, and the right to live and work with the supports needed to thrive.
How You Can Take Action
💡 Write Testimony – Personal stories are more powerful than statistics.
💡 Attend Hearings – Even if you don’t speak, your presence matters.
💡 Stay Engaged – Follow advocacy groups and contact your legislators.
That day at the capitol, Mikelle taught us something: advocacy isn’t just about asking for change—it’s about showing up and taking up space. And when we do, we remind lawmakers that our community is strong, determined, and here to stay.
#Advocacy #LTSS #DisabilityRights #CommunityLiving #ShowUp #InclusionMatters