Okay, I know in my last post, I talked about not feeling particularly motivated. But, I’m motivated now! What a week! Before I get into the presidential election, I just want to say: thank you, President Biden, for everything you did for the last fifty years especially in regards to disability rights. The thirty-fourth anniversary of the ADA was Friday and Joe Biden voted for the bill along with then MN Senator Dave Durenberger. Back then, it seems as if there was way more bipartisan compromise. I look forward to those times again, when Democrats and Republicans can work together.
Today I showed up. I signed up to go to the rally in Minnesota to hear from some of my favorite leaders – Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan, Senator Amy Klobuchar, Representative Betty McCollum, Mayor Carter, and Attorney General Ellison. It was energizing, hopeful, and I’m feeling incredibly motivated to get out, do the work, and win this! 100 days until the election and I’m all in for Kamala Harris!
I got involved in politics as a delegate for Tim Walz to the state convention 6 years ago. I was 20 years old and it was my first time raising my hand at a caucus and going all the way to the state convention. I was concerned about cuts to Medicaid, social security, accessible housing, and living an independent life as a young man with cerebral palsy. Governor Walz still hugs me every time we see each other and says I was his first delegate – when he said that we all had a seat at the table, he meant it.
I feel that same way about Vice President Harris! I feel movitivated, included, and that issues that matter to me and others with disabilities will not be pushed aside. This election matters, and I’m ready to get to work!
We didn’t take the greatest pictures at the rally, but here are a couple. It was super hot and super energizing!
For those who follow my blog who may not agree with my political views, please keep following, because I continue to write about all kinds of stuff including concerts, travels, books, writing, and life in general.
Justin Smith Writes 
Looks like a great time!
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You are incredible. Everything you do and now you campaigning! You have now motivated me to get off my duff and get involved. Thanks for the message Justin!
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I totally agree with you and support your work. Back in 2022, both President Biden and his wife, Dr. Jill Biden, celebrated the 32nd anniversary of the ADA and for the first time ever, the Capitol Crawl and the work and dedication of the disability community was finally recognized. I have seen and experienced more “effort” and “enforcement” of the ADA, during the Biden administration and made by agencies such as DOJ, than I have experienced since the passage of the ADA in 1990! We can’t afford to lose that now.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/09/28/remarks-by-first-lady-jill-biden-on-the-anniversary-of-the-americans-with-disabilities-act/
Thank you for your advocacy!
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Motivation is a precious commodity. Thank you for sharing your motivation and keeping the energy positive for all of us!
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