Justin, a young man in wheelchair smiling with a look that says "IReady to go!", name tags and seats around a Senate hearing table, American flag
Advocacy, Political, Uncategorized

This happened…

Last Friday, I was contacted by Representative Betty McCollum's Office to be part of a panel that happened yesterday to talk about the impacts of HR1 on Medicaid and our healthcare system. I, of course, said "yes, I'd love the opportunity to share my story." Because, that's what I always do. The thing is, it's… Continue reading This happened…

Side of Justin, young man in his mid-twenties in a power wheelchair, looking at speaker at podium, people seated in chairs in audience
Advocacy, Political

What did you do on New Year’s Day

So, you know the Minnesota district that has a special election coming up to elect a new MN House representative? I live there and am a delegate. I spent a long Wednesday afternoon at our Senate District 40B endorsing convention. WAIT! You went to what!!! Anyway, 100 of us delegates and even more volunteers showed… Continue reading What did you do on New Year’s Day

Justin in wheelchair, crowd behind him looking towards stage and holding Harris for president signs
Advocacy, Political

All the way down

You know that there is a pretty huge election in three weeks. So, here are my top reasons why I support Democrats up and down the ballot.

Justin smiling with MN Governor Walz
Advocacy, Political

Pure Joy

I’ve loved being involved in the political process where I can make my voice heard about issues that matter to people with disabilities. Governor Walz has made me feel important and that what I have to say is important. What a gift. Check out the USA Today article!

Justin in wheelchair, crowd behind him looking towards stage and holding Harris for president signs
Advocacy, Political

I’m motivated now!

Okay, I know in my last post, I talked about not feeling particularly motivated. But, I’m motivated now! What a week!

Justin in his wheelchair, blurred people behind him in auditorium
Advocacy, Political

Ready to convene

On Friday, I’m heading to Duluth for the DFL State Convention. This will be the 3rd time I’m a state delegate and here’s why I’m going: I went to my local caucus in February and raised my hand. I went to my Senate District Convention and raised my hand. Showing up and raising my hand… Continue reading Ready to convene

T-shirt that says Democrat
Advocacy, Political

Another Sunday

Remember the three issues that I care about: disability rights, health care and Medicaid. I know that they are divisive issues in politics and they should not be. I want to be straight with you with what’s at stake in this election for me. You’ve heard me say it before, Medicaid services for people with… Continue reading Another Sunday

Kris and Justin smiling
Advocacy, Political

Why it matters

Voting by mail this year Last week, I voted absentee for our primary election in Minnesota. That’s one way I make my voice heard and hope that you all do the same. It’s pretty simple – register to vote, request your vote-by-mail ballot for your upcoming elections, and then follow the instructions on the mail-in… Continue reading Why it matters

Kris and Justin smiling
Accessibility (#A11y), Advocacy, Political

A New Way

I’m honored to again be chosen as a delegate the Minnesota State DFL Convention. It’s a pretty different experience at the DFL virtual convention this year than in Rochester two years ago. It was exciting to be around all of the people, meet the candidates and other delegates, be part of the action and drama… Continue reading A New Way

Justin looking at computer monitor with hand on joystick mouse
Uncategorized

Pride, Prejudice & Accessibility

It is a truth, universally acknowledged, that this blog must be in want of a classic accessibility check and a Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennett. Jane Austen’s books are great, but Pride and Prejudice is one of the perfect examples of what is it that constitutes 19th century love. Take Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy.… Continue reading Pride, Prejudice & Accessibility