Self-Advocacy
Self-Advocacy is:
Self-Advocacy is NOT:

A civil rights movement for people with intellectual disabilities

A program

People speaking up for what they think is important

People sitting around complaining

Something everyone is capable of

Only for people who can talk

Making your case and negotiating for what you want

Keeping everything the same

Realizing you are not alone; joining a self advocacy group

Keeping to yourself

Knowing your strengths, being proud and feeling strong

Putting yourself down

Taking risks, trying new things

Playing it safe, doing the same stuff

Going after your dreams

Sleeping through your dreams

Making decisions

Other people making decisions for you

Making mistakes and learning from them

Not taking any chances

Being part of your community

Staying home

Managing your emotions so others can hear what you have to say

Staying angry

Being curious and asking questions

Being questioned