It can be hard to plan for the future when you aren’t sure what it will look like. Living with a disability in Tennessee can make the thought of future planning even more anxiety-inducing.
But one way we can prepare for the future is by advocating for a better one.
So, join us for the biggest disability advocacy day of the year, Disability Day on the Hill 2023, on March 8th, and help us build a better future for Tennesseans with disabilities.
What is Disability Day on the Hill?
Disability Day on the Hill (DDH) is our chance to gather together –as the disability community– to meet with legislators and advocate for policies that make Tennessee a better place for ALL to live in.
The theme for DDH 2023 is “My Tennessee Life.”
With a slight nod to our Tennessee Queen, Dolly Parton’s “My Tennessee Mountain Home,” we are highlighting how living with a disability in Tennessee is very different than other states.
The theme “My Tennessee Life” is modular to help you share your unique Tennessee disability experiences with legislators. For example, when talking about our lives in Tennessee with lawmakers, the focus of our conversation might be “My Tennessee Healthcare” or “My Tennessee Employment.”
Fill in the blank with whatever you want to share with your legislator about the realities of life in Tennessee with a disability.
Why should you participate in DDH?
DDH is all about creating a better Tennessee, not only for people with disabilities but for everyone. It’s about looking to the future and turning our dreams of a Tennessee that is peaceful, inclusive, and accessible for all. It’s about showing up and making sure our voice –as the disability community– is heard in Tennessee.
So, join us for DDH as we work to build a better future for all Tennesseans!
How you can get involved!
There are multiple ways to participate, advocate, and celebrate DDH this year. With events being offered both virtually and in-person, it’s never been easier to get involved.
DDH in-person events include:
- TDC Community Party on March 7th, 2023
The evening before DDH in Nashville, we will be gathering together for a time of community and fun. We will have an outdoor space, with masking encouraged. If you feel safe participating, we’d love to see you there! Details to follow.
2. Disability Day on the Hill: March 8th, 2023
This is the big day! Disability Day on the Hill will be at the Cordell Hull Building in downtown Nashville. Please note that Covid-19 safety protocols will be minimal at the legislative office building. Masks are not required (you won’t see many of them) and folks aren’t social distancing. If you do not feel safe participating in person, join us virtually instead!
DDH virtual events include:
1. Webinar with Legislators: March 2nd, 2023
This will be an online-only event. Details to follow.
2.Disability Advocacy Day: March 11th, 2023
Disability Advocacy Day is a time to celebrate disability advocacy across the state. In celebration, landmarks and buildings across Tennessee will light up “Coalition Blue.” Check out our website for participating locations and how you can light up “Coalition Blue” in solidarity!
The deadline to RSVP for Disability Day on the Hill is February 15th, so don’t wait!
RSVP for DDH at this link: https://form.jotform.com/223464271389159
Regardless of how you participate in DDH this year, make sure you stay connected!
1. Join our Statewide Facebook Group
As a part of DDH 2023, we have a new statewide Facebook group to bring together fierce disability advocates from across the state to connect, have conversations, and share resources.
2. Text TEAMWORK to 72690
Get DDH 2023 information and Tennessee disability policy updates and alerts sent directly to your phone. Avg. 1-4/msg per week. Msg & Data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help or STOP to cancel.
Hannah Kehrer joined the Tennessee Disability Coalition in October of 2021. In her role, she supports the communications team with outreach, engagement, and storytelling. She’s also responsible for TDC’s social media presence, video production, and digital content. Hannah previously worked with advocates at the state and federal levels to fight for causes like Medicaid expansion, and keeping youth from being criminally tried as adults. She’s a fierce, passionate social justice advocate and is excited to work with the TDC to support and empower Tennesseans with disabilities. Hannah is originally from Texas and will be sure to let everyone know! She graduated from Belmont University with a Bachelor of Social Work.