An Introduction To The Concept of Self-Determination and How It Can Be Applied In Your Life

Thank you for your overwhelming support of yesterday's blog about Braille Legos. Today's post will be a little bit different. Near the end of August, I was lucky enough to be a part of a team that gave a presentation on what is known as self-determination. For those of you who are reading this but were unable to attend the presentation I thought I would write a blog using easy-to-understand language about the concept.

Introduction:

In the journey towards creating an inclusive society, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s principles of self-determination serve as strong examples of empowerment. These principles emphasize the significance of autonomy, choice, and personal growth for individuals with disabilities. Let’s delve into the essence of self-determination and explore its profound impact on the lives of people with disabilities.

Understanding Self-Determination: 

At its core, self-determination encompasses the idea that individuals with disabilities have the right to make choices about their own lives and actively participate in decisions that affect them. This concept champions the belief that everyone, regardless of ability, possesses the innate capability to lead a fulfilling life and pursue their aspirations.

Principle 1: Freedom to Make Choices:

The first principle underscores the freedom we have to make choices according to our preferences, interests, and values. This freedom extends beyond trivial decisions to encompass major life choices, such as education, career, relationships, and living arrangements. Recognizing and respecting these choices helps foster a sense of ownership over one’s life journey.

Principle 2: Authority Over Supports:

Having authority over the types of support and assistance we receive is pivotal for us. This principle acknowledges that each person’s needs and goals are unique, and thus, we should have the power to determine the kind of support that aligns with our aspirations. This approach shifts the focus from a “one size fits all” approach to a personalized, tailored support system. 

Principle 3: Control Over Resources:

Financial independence and control over resources play a significant role in self-determination. Individuals with disabilities should have access to information about available resources and the autonomy to manage their finances. This empowerment helps us plan for our futures and make informed decisions that positively impact our lives.

Principle 4: Opportunities to Learn and Grow:

Continuous learning and personal growth are fundamental to leading a self-determined life. This principle emphasizes providing individuals with disabilities equal opportunities for education, skill development, and vocational training. These avenues not only enhance our abilities but also amplify our voices and allow us to gain confidence and realize our full potential.

Principle 5: Participate in Community Life:

Inclusion within the community is a cornerstone of self-determination. Individuals with disabilities should have the chance to actively engage in social, recreational, and cultural activities, just like everyone else. This principle dismantles barriers and encourages the forging of meaningful connections to lead a rich and fulfilling life. It is only by self-growth and by developing who you are as a person, whether it is in the disability community or otherwise, that you can move onto the final principle which is all about giving back.

Principle 6: The Ability to Give Back to the Disability Community and Advocate for the Rights of People with Disabilities:

In my presentation, I only use 5 principles, but the sixth principle is otherwise known as confirmation. Once you are living the other five principles to the best of your ability it is your responsibility to give back and complete the circle of learning. As people with disabilities, we have a responsibility to learn about our rights and once we have done so, it is our job to pass that knowledge along to future generations of advocates. This could be done in a variety of ways through presentations like the one I gave at the conference, through blogs like this one, or even taking advantage of the times and posting videos on social media.

In conclusion, the principles discussed above if applied correctly, will help us on the path to personal empowerment. Once we empower ourselves and gain confidence in ourselves, we can push for societal change to break down barriers, challenge systematic and societal biases as well and create an environment no matter if you have a disability or not where your dreams and aspirations are honored and supported. If this occurs even in the long term, we will have built a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Thank you for your overwhelming support of this blog. I hope you have an enjoyable weekend. Now I know Monday is Labor Day but advocacy doesn't take holidays therefore neither does The Voiceless Minority. Come back on Monday to not only support the workers of America but start the back-to-school season with a blog that raises an important but not often asked question. "When is the right time to start teaching my kids about disabilities?"

Your Friendly Neighborhood Super Advocate, 
Jay