Everyone deserves the opportunity to live, work, learn, and participate in their community. Community inclusion means people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to make choices about their lives, build relationships, access services, and participate in community life.
Protection & Advocacy (P&A) works to promote the rights of people with disabilities to live in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs and to receive the supports necessary to be active members of their communities.
The Olmstead Decision
In 1999, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its landmark decision in Olmstead v. L.C., recognizing that unnecessary segregation of people with disabilities is a form of discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The Olmstead decision affirms that public entities should provide services in the most integrated setting appropriate to an individual's needs whenever:
- Community-based services are appropriate.
- The individual does not oppose receiving services in the community.
- Community placement can be reasonably accommodated.
The decision continues to shape disability rights by promoting opportunities for people with disabilities to live, work, and participate in their communities.
For more information on Olmstead, visit The North Dakota Olmstead Commission | Olmstead Commission, North Dakota.
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) provide supports that help people with disabilities and older adults live in their homes and communities rather than institutional settings.
Depending on an individual's needs, HCBS may include services such as:
- Personal care and daily living support
- Employment and vocational services
- Assistive technology
- Transportation
- Respite care
- Behavioral and therapeutic supports
- Community living and independent living supports
Access to quality HCBS helps promote independence, choice, and meaningful community participation.
What are Home and Community Based Services (HCBS)?
Challenging Stigma
Stigma can create barriers to inclusion by reinforcing misconceptions, stereotypes, and negative attitudes about disability. These attitudes can affect opportunities for education, employment, housing, healthcare, and meaningful participation in community life.
Building inclusive communities starts with recognizing the value, strengths, and contributions of people with disabilities. By promoting understanding, respecting individual choices, and focusing on accessibility and belonging, we can help reduce stigma and create communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Abolition of Shame: A North Dakota Homecoming