Raising Our Voices for Disability Rights and Medicaid Support in Washington, D.C.

In early September, Katie Elleraas spent several impactful days in Washington, D.C., meeting with the advocacy agency ANCOR, engaging with Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) advocacy colleagues, attending ANCOR’s Government Relations Committee meetings, and partnering with legislators to champion the rights of Americans living with disabilities.

From Katie:
“I love Washington, D.C., because despite the challenges Medicaid is facing now and in the future, there is nothing more inspiring than lifting your voice—as an advocate, a citizen, and an American.”

Medicaid Advocacy Matters Now More Than Ever

ANCOR recently mobilized over 132,000 calls to Congress, successfully pushing back on proposed block grants for Medicaid. Their work is a testament to the power of unified voices.

“These are hard times. The story of our democracy is marked with controversy—but love is strong, and love is what calls us to serve.”
— Barbara Merrill, CEO of ANCOR

With more than $1 trillion in proposed cuts to Medicaid, we must all speak up. This program is essential to the well-being and independence of millions of Americans.

👉 Take action today: ANCOR Advocacy Toolkit

📸 Barbara Merrill, ANCHOR, CEO

Contact Your Legislators: Make IDD Services a Priority

Representative Manion of New York is a fierce defender of Medicaid and those it serves. While he may represent New York, the fight for Medicaid is a nationwide concern—this isn’t just a Minnesota issue.

“We all do better when we all do better.”

Advocacy also means checking in with our neighbors, supporting our colleagues, and lifting up one another’s voices. Thank you, Rep. Manion, for your dedication and leadership!

A critical bill, S. 2076 — The HCBS Relief Act of 2025, will soon be up for consideration. This bill could significantly impact Medicaid funding across the country. Whether you’re in Minnesota, New York, or beyond—your voice matters.

📣 Learn more and take action:
S.2076 – HCBS Relief Act of 2025 | Congress.gov

📸 Katie and Rep. Manion

Honoring the Legacy of Tony Coelho and the ADA

Tony Coelho, co-author of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), once said:

“Give me the opportunity to fail, so that I might have the chance to succeed.”

The ADA is historic legislation that ensures access, employment, and civil rights for Americans with disabilities. Medicaid is a critical public service that helps turn the vision of the ADA into a living reality—by enabling independence, promoting employment, and expanding access to healthcare and community support.

📸 Tony Coelho

Recognizing the Essential Work of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)

Meet Angela, a dedicated DSP from Illinois who works tirelessly to support individuals with disabilities. DSPs are the backbone of disability services, and their work deserves national recognition.

We’re advocating for the creation of a Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) for DSPs. SOCs provide essential data to show how DSPs contribute to the workforce, the economy, and the success of disability programs.

🎯 Take action: Urge your legislators to support the SOC designation for DSPs and honor their invaluable contributions to our communities.

📸 Katie and Angela

Now Is the Time to Act

Every voice counts. Whether you’re a family member, a professional, or a self-advocate—your message to lawmakers helps shape the future of disability services in America.

✅ Reach out. Speak up. Be heard.
Together, we can ensure Medicaid continues to be a lifeline—not just a line item.

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