Title: Inclusive Policy and Systemic Change: The Critical Role of Disabled Voices and Allies
Date: Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Reception at 5 pm, Lecture at 5:30 pm
Description: Join Dr. Josie Badger for an insightful exploration into the crucial role of disabled individuals and allies in shaping policy and driving systemic change. This lecture will delve into pressing disability issues, emphasizing the imperative of inclusion, justice, and equity in policy-making and systems change. The session will reveal the disconnect between policymakers and the lived experiences of disabled individuals, highlighting how well-intentioned changes can inadvertently harm or exclude those they aim to support.
Participants are invited to engage in a discussion that underscores the critical importance of incorporating disabled voices in the policy-making process, ensuring that their unique perspectives and needs are acknowledged and addressed. Attendees are welcome to join this essential dialogue on the intersection of disability, policy, and justice, and to learn how we can collectively work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Bio: Dr. Badger received her Bachelor’s degree from Geneva College in Disability Law and Advocacy, a Master’s from the University of Pittsburgh in Rehabilitation Counseling, and a Doctorate from Duquesne University in Healthcare Ethics. In 2012, Dr. Badger was crowned Ms. Wheelchair America. In 2014 Josie founded J Badger Consulting Inc. where she provides youth development and disability consulting services. She is the National Transition Director for SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, working with RAISE and the National Healthcare Transition Center for Youth with ID/DD. She is the Campaign Manager of the United Way of Southwestern PA’s #IWantToWork Campaign, to improve the employment of people with disabilities, is the lead Field Organizer for the Family Care Act that supports paid family leave, and is the developer of TRAIL, a statewide advocacy and lobbying training program. She serves as the Secretary of FISA and co-chair of the Grants Committee. Josie recently founded PEACOCK a nonprofit that will further support the needs of the disability community and diversity, equity, inclusion, and access. With this new initiative, she hopes to be able to support the work of a new commission on men’s mental health.