Learning Engagement: Advocating for Deaf survivors with Intellectual/Developmental Disability
This Learning Engagement is a call to action for all those involved in anti-violence work to address the unique needs of Deaf survivors with intellectual/developmental disabilities. We know that there is a lack of services for survivors with I/DD in the US, and they are very isolated within group homes, family care, or state placement. That makes it difficult for advocates to locate survivors with I/DD. Advocates must explore ways to ensure their programs consider marginalized populations and how to do outreach. We need to delve into the unique barriers that Deaf survivors with intellectual/developmental disability may encounter when it comes to reporting violence and seeking support. In the case of legal and policy advocacy, we need to examine the existing legal and policy frameworks relevant to Deaf I/DD survivors and discuss advocacy efforts to enhance their protection and rights. By fostering collaboration, understanding, and cultural sensitivity, we can collectively work towards creating safer and more supportive environments for everyone, regardless of their background or abilities. This workshop will enhance the advocate’s understanding of how effective communication can be with survivors with I/DD, what barriers may arise that are unique DV/SV situations, and how to be culturally responsive to this particularly marginalized population.
On day one of this Engagement, we will open with a warm introduction to presenter, Andrea Holcom, to discuss culturally responsive services for survivors with I/DD. The goal is to gain knowledge and improve outreach to other deaf and hearing organizations that serve the I/DD community. Andrea Holcom has ten years of experience serving Deaf I/DD folks from her agency that provides county-wide services for I/DD clients. Andrea discusses her experience as a case manager for clients with I/DD, barriers for survivors, and system barriers and interventions. On Day 2, Lisa Gonzales, who has experience in legal advocacy and general advocacy from her years at GLAAD and as Executive Director at Deaf Plus Adult Community, shares what advocacy can look like while working with survivors with I/DD. In both sessions, there were collective discussions applying information to case scenarios.
Day One: Presenter Andrea Holcom and Collective Discussion
Day Two: Presenter Lisa Gonzales and Collective Discussion