These were empowering experiences. She felt it is important to be self-reflective and encouraged summit participants to look at their own histories. The struggle continues to make the disability movement more diverse and inclusive. She noted that the needs of psychiatric survivors were not addressed in the early days of the independent living movement. Stigma and hierarchy are real within the disability community and must be addressed.
People empower themselves.
She felt that through example, those present at the meeting can be mentors and help others to find personal power and strength. She expressed concern that the younger generation of persons with disabilities did not feel a part of a bigger, broader movement. Although placed in a mainstream school, he was segregated in a classroom more than two hours from his home. In high school, although he couldn't participate in many sports, he ran cross-country. He was hit by trees, posts, and tripped because of his limited vision.