Citizen Advocacy: Promise and Reality

This document explores the evolution, challenges, and future of Citizen Advocacy (CA) as a vital social movement aimed at fostering authentic relationships and advocating for people with developmental disabilities (DD). ​ It reflects on the promise of CA since its inception in 1972, addressing the question, “Who will be there for our child when we are gone?” ​ The text highlights the role of unpaid advocates in creating meaningful connections, safeguarding rights, and pushing for inclusive, community-based services. ​

The narrative delves into historical milestones, such as the National Protection & Advocacy (P&A) Promise of 1975 and the GAO Promise of 1976, which aimed to protect individuals in institutions from abuse and neglect. ​ It also examines the slow growth of CA programs, the tension between CA practices and systemic requirements, and the impact of cultural shifts and competing safeguards like HIPAA. ​

The document candidly discusses the “red squirrel phenomenon,” likening CA’s rarity and vulnerability to extinction, while questioning its adaptability in a changing world. ​ It acknowledges the resilience of marginalized communities through self-advocacy and inclusive innovations, yet critiques CA’s limited reach and dependency on state funding.

Looking forward, the text challenges readers to rethink CA’s principles and experiment with new approaches to mobilize ordinary citizens for systemic reform and adoption advocacy. ​ It emphasizes the need for creative solutions to redeem CA’s promise in a world shaped by managed care, centralized authority, and evolving cultural values. ​

This thought-provoking piece invites reflection on how to sustain and grow Citizen Advocacy while staying true to its core mission of fostering authentic, life-changing relationships. ​