Self Advocates Meet with State Representative John Allen

On November 15, 2016, YAC-AZ members Calvin Cook, Jay Dashefsky, and SWI members George Garcia  and Juliana Huerena had the great opportunity to meet with Arizona House Of Representatives Member John Allen (District 15) to discuss issues that are affecting people with developmental disabilities in the state of Arizona. Rep. Allen as a strong proponent of disability rights and was very receptive to the concerns voiced by YAC-AZ members. Among the issues discussed at the meeting including improving employment opportunities for people with disabilities, funding for programs such as Rehabilitative Services Administration, and students with disabilities are able to continue attending school in an inclusive environment.

after the hour-long meeting with the representative, he provided YAC-AZ members with a tour of the legislative floor. It was a great to see up close and personal where our state legislators conduct the business of the people. While on the floor, he told us about his background and how he got involved with politics.

YAC-AZ members look forward to working with Rep. Allen to provide feedback and voiced the concerns of youth with developmental disabilities in Arizona. YAC-AZ would like to thank Rep. Allen for taking the time out of his busy schedule to meet with concerned voting citizens.