The 2024 Presidential Election and the Disability Community: A Call for Continued Advocacy

The 2024 Presidential election has finally reached its conclusion, bringing with it a profound impact on communities across the nation. Yet for millions in the disability community, the election's consequences are not merely political; they are deeply personal. The disability community faces unique struggles, often navigating systemic barriers to healthcare, accessible housing, employment, education, and social inclusion. As a result, each election brings a mixture of hope and anxiety — hope that elected leaders will prioritize disability rights, and anxiety about the possibility of rolling back essential protections. This election is no different, and its outcome carries significant repercussions for individuals and families within the disability community.

The Realities and Consequences of the 2024 Election

The reality of any election for those with disabilities often means a period of adjustment and, sometimes, fear. This election, with its fierce debates and promises, has left many wondering if their rights to access public spaces, healthcare, and job opportunities will be protected, or if they will face additional hurdles. Accessible healthcare is one area particularly at risk. Depending on the policies of the new administration, certain protections for pre-existing conditions and essential health services could be modified, affecting how individuals with disabilities receive critical care.

Economic stability is another vital concern. The new administration’s stance on disability employment and support programs will directly impact job opportunities and financial security for people with disabilities. If funding for vocational training, reasonable accommodations, and independent living programs is reduced, it may create greater obstacles for those striving for financial independence. Many in the disability community also rely on federal programs such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which are lifelines for individuals and families. A shift in policy could mean changes in benefit eligibility and support levels, pushing some into financial hardship.

Potential Repercussions on Social Inclusion and Rights

Beyond healthcare and economic security, the disability community has long advocated for broader social inclusion — an aspect that could face renewed challenges. Public policies impact more than just programs; they shape societal attitudes. When disability issues are deprioritized at the policy level, it can signal to the broader society that accessibility and inclusion are secondary concerns. Such shifts could undo progress made in achieving equity in schools, workplaces, and communities. This election’s results have the potential to influence not only the immediate well-being of individuals with disabilities but also the broader societal view on the importance of disability rights.

5 Ways to Advocate for the Disability Community Amid Policy Changes

Despite these challenges, the disability community remains resilient. Advocacy can and must continue, regardless of who is in office. Here are five ways to keep pushing forward, ensuring that disability rights and inclusion remain at the forefront of public consciousness:

1. Stay Informed and Involved
   Knowledge is power. Stay updated on proposed changes to disability-related laws and programs at both the federal and state levels. Join newsletters from advocacy organizations and attend public hearings or virtual town halls when possible. Staying informed allows advocates to respond swiftly and precisely to any policies that threaten essential services.

2. Support Disability Rights Organizations
   Organizations like the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), and other local advocacy groups work tirelessly to uphold the rights of individuals with disabilities. Volunteering time, making financial contributions, or sharing these organizations’ work on social media can amplify their reach and impact, making it harder for policymakers to ignore disability rights issues.

3. Engage in Local Advocacy and Community Action
   Change often begins at the local level. Advocate for disability-friendly policies in your city or county and encourage local businesses, schools, and public facilities to adopt accessible practices. Community-level advocacy not only creates tangible improvements but also sets a positive example that can influence state and national standards.

4. Harness the Power of Storytelling
   Personal stories have the power to shift perspectives. Share your own story or amplify others’ experiences with disability challenges and successes. Public forums, social media, and local news outlets are effective ways to bring visibility to the day-to-day realities of living with a disability. When people see and hear real-life impacts, it becomes harder for them to dismiss the importance of disability rights.

5. Encourage Allies to Speak Out
   Allies play a crucial role in advocacy. Engage friends, family members, and colleagues in conversations about disability rights and the implications of the election on accessibility and inclusion. The broader the base of supporters, the stronger the collective voice advocating for policy that prioritizes dignity, accessibility, and fairness.

A Call to Action

The 2024 election has come and gone, but our commitment to advocating for the disability community must not waver. The road ahead may be challenging, with policies that might threaten the autonomy and security of individuals with disabilities. However, we cannot afford to stay silent. Now is the time to stand firm, to rally, and to advocate with even greater resolve. Together, we must remind every elected official, policymaker, and community leader that the disability community deserves equal rights, equal access, and equal respect. Let this serve as a call to action — a clarion call to continue the fight, to push forward, and to never give up on the vision of a truly inclusive society for all. The future of disability rights depends on us — let's rise to the challenge.