As we enter into the final days of seasonal festivities, we know it can be hard to talk about certain issues with family and friends in this heated climate. Keep your holidays warm and inviting with these tips on how to talk about disability topics around the table. 

For 15 years, Michelle Rigler has served as director of the Disability Resource Center, growing the volume of services and resources available to students with disabilities. When she first started, the center worked with 111 students. Today, the center provides resources to approximately 1,000 students at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga. 

“We’ve tried to create a culture of access and we’ve been recognized for it,” Rigler says of the center’s journey. 

We are excited to introduce the 2020 campaign aimed at spreading awareness around disability, dismantling stereotypes, and coming together to advocate as one. We hope that you will join us as we continue in our work to create a society that values, includes, and supports Tennesseans with disabilities. 

Imagine the infinite potential of 1.96 million Tennesseans rallying together around a single cause. Imaging that huge sea of people taking to the streets, signs held high as they march and chant in unison. 

Ten years ago, Sunny Rosanbalm noticed that her daughter-in-law was having trouble lifting and maneuvering her son in their home.  At three years old, Tucker was growing fast, making it harder for his mother to carry him in and out of the house. Because Tucker experienced numerous seizures as a baby, he could not walk or talk. It soon became apparent that the house they occupied did not meet Tucker and his family’s needs.