The purpose of this event is to bring together people with all types of disabilities who are interested in developing and sharing leadership skills. In order to have our voices heard and respected, we must create stronger networks for sharing and supporting one another. Kentucky has a few self-advocacy groups, but they tend to be small and disconnected from one another. We are hoping that the unconference will help to create some stronger bonds and help us all to think about new ways to work together on issues of importance to our communities.
The unconference format is a great equalizer. There is a structure behind the apparent lack of structure that encourages participation by those who may have found themselves disempowered in more formal settings. There is a strong sense of ownership and connection that comes from the shared responsibility of creating and leading sessions. It is an approach very well suited to the discussion of self-advocate leadership. —Bev Harp
This event, sponsored by UK-HDI, CCDD, KY P&A, and others will be held on July 23 from 9:30—3:00 at the Clarion Hotel in Lexington. It is presented free of charge to people with disabilities who are interested in developing and/or sharing leadership skills and strategies, networking with others, influencing policy, and related topics. An unconference is a participant-led series of meetings with no expert speakers or predetermined agenda. Participants will choose the specific topics and lead discussions. Our planning committee members will be available to assist anyone who would like help leading a session. Learn more about unconferencing here: http://unconference.net/
Please share this information with any and all self-advocates. Allies of people with disabilities are welcome to participate.
Register here: https://rebrand.ly/unpuzzled
Please join our Facebook discussion: https://tinyurl.com/unpuzzle
The second major event of this project will a workshop for advocates and allies. The dates has not been set yet, but it will be in the fall. Information gathered from the unconference will be shared by self-advocates at the workshop. Details to come.