Violins Not Violence

"WHY ARE YOU IN RIOT GEAR!?
WE DON'T SEE NO RIOT HERE!"

Police respond to the violin vigil for Elijah McClain with aggression and violence. If you don't know who Elijah McClain is, take some time to learn and remember his name. The trial of paramedics that killed him starts Monday, while police perpetrators go on trial for homicide beginning next month.

Click 🧠 here for what happened to Elijah.
Do you remember? #JusticeForElijahMcClain

Protests Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mavxlTN0pSY

#Justice4Elijah #BLM #EndAbleism #EndRacism #SocialJustice #EndBigotry #NoJusticeNoPeace #StopKillingUs #ICantBreathe #InvisibleDisabilityRights #StopPoliceViolence #SocialJustice #TearDownTheWall #ElijahMcClain #hero

@disabilityjustice @disability @actuallyautistics

"Disability ID and Disability Deaths" Conclusion: "Justice for Elijah McClain"!
CONTENT WARNING (CW): the details and videos of this event may be disturbing to some.
The winds of change began to blow in the summer of 2020. A change.org petition compiled over 2 million signatures, seeking justice for Elijah McClain. On June 10, 2020, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis told the public, Atty Gen Phil Weiser would be investigating the death of McClain. Also that June, protesters shut down a section of Interstate 225, demanding accountability for his death. In the series of peaceful demonstrations, protesters were also targeted by police. During those protests, when heavily militarized police arrived, the legendary chant began, "WHY ARE YOU IN RIOT GEAR! WE DON'T SEE NO RIOT HERE". Finally, there was momentum in the battle for some form of justice.

In September, 2021, over two years after the crime, a 32 count grand jury indictment charged the five first responders for their actions. The forensic pathologist who was part of the grand jury investigation, concluded the cause of death was "homicide". The individuals named in the grand jury indictment were: officers Randy Roedema, Nathan Woodyard, Jason Rosenblatt, and paramedics Jeremy Cooper and Peter Cichuniec. All five were charged with "Manslaughter" and "Criminally negligent homicide" among other charges. Roedema, Rosenblatt and both EMTs were additionally charged with "Second-degree assault" and "Crime of violence". The trial of officers Randy Roedema and Jason Rosenblatt, being tried together, was scheduled to start on July 10 but, was postponed, with no new date set at that time.

The indictment was followed by a series of other events. In September 2022, well after the grand jury indictment, Adams County announced, the original 2019 autopsy report had been amended. It now stated the means as "COMPLICATIONS OF KETAMINE ADMINISTRATION FOLLOWING FORCIBLE RESTRAINT". However, the cause of death was still listed as "UNDETERMINED", rather than "homicide". Interestingly enough, in November 2021, the city of Aurora agreed to pay the family of Elijah McClain, $15 million to settle a federal civil rights action.

Next week, the first of the three trials is set to begin, as paramedics Cooper and Cichuniec have a court date on August 7. Nathan Woodyard, the first Aurora officer on the scene, will stand trial alone beginning on September 18. The judge that pushed back the Roedema and Rosenblatt case, expressed hopes for a rescheduling by October. Three years will have elapsed since Elijah McClain's death, before any proceedings against police will begin. That fact alone underscores other findings of "implicit bias" in regard to racial and disability justice. Unfortunately, that problem is not limited to Colorado.

It's reported that over 1100 people were killed by police in 2022, other reports say, "half of people killed by police have a disability". It seems to be a dangerous time if someone decides another is different, especially if that someone has authority. People with disabilities are not a "new thing", and represent about 26% of the US population. Why should it be necessary to teach those sworn to "serve and protect", basics like: understanding, accommodation, proper communication, and preservation of dignity, when it comes to invisible disability? Can things like human decency, actually be taught with "adequate training"? Considering Elijah and the story of Christian Glass, is it any wonder many individuals with invisible disabilities, are afraid to call police for help? How many such crimes are covered up or not reported? Will an ID card really change anything? More importantly, why did so many have to suffer, before anyone heard them call... "I'm just different. I'm just different, that's all".

OutOfExile_IDR © 2023

Elijah McClain's last words: CW
"I can't breathe. I have my ID right here. My name is Elijah McClain. That's my house. I was just going home. I'm an introvert. I'm just different. That's all. I'm so sorry. I have no gun. I don't do that stuff. I don't do any fighting. Why are you attacking me? I don't even kill flies! I don't eat meat! But I don't judge people, I don't judge people who do eat meat. Forgive me. All I was trying to do was become better. I will do it. I will do anything. Sacrifice my identity, I'll do it. You all are phenomenal. You are beautiful and I love you. Try to forgive me. I'm a mood Gemini. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. Ow, that really hurt! You are all very strong. Teamwork makes the dream work. [after vomiting] Oh, I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to do that. I just can't breathe correctly."

PART ONE: https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110710011783405013

PART TWO: https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110732685184804207

PART THREE; https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110738275935209052

PART FOUR – Christian Glass: https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110755046372094242

Half of People Killed by Police Have a Disability: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/half-people-killed-police-suffer-mental-disability-report-n538371

Six minute video analysis of Elijah McClain's: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGlHMZQtO7U

Full 3 hour video including multiple officers body cam footage and Elijah McClain's mother attempting to get answers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5NcyePEOJ8

Adams County Sheriff – no charges in the death of Elijah McClain: https://kdvr.com/news/problem-solvers/elijah-mcclain-indictments-why-colorado-ag-filed-charges-when-adams-da-didnt/?ipid=promo-link-block2

Adams County coroner amendments autopsy report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6WPP3-8AwU includes video of the incident

Timeline, analysis of body cam footage in Elijah McClain case: https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/elijah-mcclain/elijah-mcclain-body-camera-video-analysis-timeline/73-68537e78-add9-4e66-97c6-a22c080b1e1e

Police mock the death of Elijah McClain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giOB3LJj_g0

Accused killers plead not guilty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUU-xE-uouQ

Protesters targeted: https://www.thecut.com/2021/10/how-aurora-colorado-police-cover-up-misconduct-and-brutality.html

"Hundreds of Officers That Have Been Labeled Liars. Some Still Help Send People to Prison": https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/news/investigations/2019/10/14/brady-lists-police-officers-dishonest-corrupt-still-testify-investigation-database/2233386001/

Example of Aurora PD's racial profiling: https://sentinelcolorado.com/metro/police-courts/aurora-cop-who-shot-boy-14-part-of-unlawful-search-settlement-of-black-man/

Legal analysis by Wolfberg and Wirth: https://www.ems1.com/legal/articles/legal-analysis-what-the-paramedic-criminal-charges-in-the-elijah-mcclain-case-mean-for-ems-wIPxkOn0Hn4ToKVk/

Wikipedia page containing a link to the 911 call and police body camera: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Elijah_McClain

#Justice4Elijah #ActuallyAutistic #BLM #InvisibleDisabilityRights #EndAbleism #POC #EndRacism #change #disability #accommodation #understanding #DisabilityCommunity #SpeakUp4Change #DisabilitySolidarity #MentalHealth #DisabilityRights #decency #dignity #SocialJustice #EndBigotry #PoliceViolence #NoJusticeNoPeace #StopKillingUs #ICantBreathe #TearDownTheWall
@disabilityjustice @disability @actuallyautistics

Disability ID and Disability Deaths – How Police Killed Elijah McClain
CONTENT WARNING (CW): The details and linked videos of this event may be disturbing to some. Image-eye contact.

Even with the positives disability designator IDs might bring, it's unlikely a card will prevent authorities from abusing and killing people with invisible disabilities. Aside from a change in attitudes, there are still far too many, long-overdue reforms needed. Many instances of police induced death involving the disabled, including people with autism, brain injury, and hearing impairments, were blamed on the victim. Most were, in fact, a direct result of: Ablest attitudes (ignorance), use of excessive force, and unacceptable treatment attributed to inadequate training. Utilizing invisible disabilities to scapegoat victims and bury the case, is another tactic often employed but, "inadequate training", is not what has killed so many people with disabilities.

Mentioned in part three of this piece, the history of one particular force, is a prime demonstration of a "pattern and practice", that has destroyed lives and families of people with invisible disabilities. According to other investigations, Aurora Colorado's pattern of policing, has raised concerns of implicit bias towards the disabled, POC and other marginalized people. Perhaps, one of the most famous examples from that city, is the death of a 23-year-old black man with autism and anemia, Elijah McClain. That case, sparked outrage from both the disabled and black communities, and with the first of three homicide trials set to begin in August, now is not the time to forget what happened to Elijah. The demeaning and despicable treatment he was subjected to, is not uncommon in "policing" of the disabled.

August 24, 2019: Elijah McClain, a massage therapist, violinist and "gentle soul", was walking home from a convenience store not, far from his home. Because of his anemia, which often made him feel cold, he was known to where a ski mask. On his way home, someone in a house he passed called police to report an unarmed, "sketchy" individual. Minutes Later, Aurora PD's Nathan Woodyard saw Elijah walking to his home and stopped. Within 9 sec. of exiting his car, Woodyard had his hands on Elijah McClain. Just seconds later, officers Randy Roedema and Jason Rosenblatt showed up, also engaging with Elisha. As he explained he was an "introvert" and was "just walking home", one of the officers responded, "Relax, or I'm going to have to change this situation".

The officers had McClain against the wall before taking the five feet seven, 143 lb man to the ground. One of their body cameras was detached and landed in the grass, capturing an officer slowly walking out of view. With Elijah and police no longer being filmed clearly, one officer can be heard claiming, "he just grabbed your gun dude". Within four seconds of the allegation, Elijah can be heard choking as a result of police applying the carotid restraint, restricting his airflow. FOUR SECONDS?! One of the officers later told investigators that McClain "briefly" fell unconscious and the officers released their grasp on his neck. The chokehold was implemented only one min. and four sec. after the first officer exited his vehicle. The three officers involved, Woodyard, Rosenblatt and Roedema, all claimed their body cameras "fell off " in the "struggle" with this small statured young man.

The video footage is very difficult to listen to. Elijah McClain can be heard gasping as he pleads with officers to stop, saying, "I can't breathe". Elijah continues to plead, saying his name and that he was "just going home". Through his sobs, came the words myself and many others with invisible disabilities, will never forget. "I'm just different. I'm just different, that's all". It's hard to hear the police on the audio of one body cam but, Elijah's words are clear… "I'm so sorry. I have no gun. I don't do that stuff. I don't do any fighting. Why are you attacking me?". As officers ignore his pleas, they seem to spin tales of their "struggle" with a 143 pound person. One repeated the accusation that McClain tried to grab officer Roedema's gun, and that they "had" to use the carotid hold.

About six minutes after the initial contact by police, Elijah McClain can be heard vomiting for the first time. One of the officers commands him to "STOP" to which McClain apologized saying, "I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to do that. I just can't breathe correctly". In the next few minutes, McClain gets sick "a few more times" while officers held him facedown on the ground, telling him repeatedly to stop resisting. Reports say he was also handcuffed and still wearing the ski mask when he was sick, and as a result, was struggling to breathe. He may have been trying to roll on his side or remove the mask to breathe better, as police seemed to be acting out a show of "resisting arrest" for the body cam audio.

Police can be heard threatening him, "Don't get up. It's not gonna be good for you, I'm telling you right now". Another officer standing over him said "You keep messin' around, I'm unna bring my dog out here", saying he would let the dog attack Elijah. Approximately 11 minutes after the initial contact by officer Woodyard, the cameras capture police saying, "When the ambulance gets here, were gonna go ahead and give him some ketamine". This is also when they claimed "whatever he's on, he has incredible strength." Another concurs "yeah, crazy strength". It's alarming that police and individuals of such character, have authority to mandate the administering of this powerful sedative.

The timing of the accusation that Elijah McClain attempted to grab the firearm, only seconds after body cams were removed, is highly suspect. Again, McClain was 143 lbs, being held by three much larger men. While one of the officer's body cam was still attached, another can be heard telling him to "move" his camera. I don't believe the body cams dislodged, and firmly believe these accused murderers doffed them. The Maclean's attorney said police intentionally removed their body cameras "to support a false allegation that McClain reached for a gun". Though it is not clear on the video, there is absolutely, no doubt in my mind. The same is true, regarding their claims for body cam audio that Elijah was "struggling". If he was struggling, it was likely for air and survival.

The report from paramedics, Jeremy Cooper and Peter Cichuniec claimed that when they arrived, Elijah was displaying signs of "excited delirium". The snap "diagnosis" was made, despite never touching, talking to, or checking Maclean's vitals. Were these paramedics scapegoating in an effort to protect their fellow first responders? After incorrectly estimating his weight, the paramedics administered 500 mg of ketamine to McClain, a dosage for someone nearly 60 to 70 pounds larger. For those who believe in forcibly drugging people, the proper ketamine dosage for Elijah's weight, is about 325 mg. Approximately 23 minutes after Nathan Woodyard stopped "to talk" to McClain, the officers responsible were informed, Elijah, had no pulse. Less than a week later, he was declared brain-dead on August 27, 2019, and died, three days later on the 30th.

According to cpr.org–CPR news: "After McClain’s death, Dr. Stephen Cina, a contractor forensic pathologist for Adams County, completed the autopsy on Sept. 3, 2019. There were two Aurora police officers and two representatives from the Adams County District Attorney’s office in attendance". I'd be interested to hear that conversation, considering the findings of the autopsy. The Adams County corner ruled the cause of death as "undetermined" saying that, "a therapeutic amount" of ketamine was found in Maclean's system. The report, reeking of scapegoating, speculated about drug use and undiagnosed mental illness, while seeming to conclude nothing but suppositional "ifs".

Excerpt from Dr. Cina's report: "The manner of death may be accident if it was an idiosyncratic drug reaction,” . “It may be natural if (McClain) had an undiagnosed mental illness that led to excited delirium, if his intense physical exertion combined with a narrow coronary artery led to an arrhythmia, if he had an asthma attack, or if he aspirated vomit while restrained."... "It may be a homicide if the actions of officers led to his death (eg. carotid control hold…)”.

That's a lot of "Ifs". I can't help but wonder "IF", the presence of officers and DA personnel "may" have influence the doctors findings. In conjunction with the corners "undetermined" autopsy determination, Adams County DA Dave Young said, he would not bring charges against the officers. This seeming manipulation of justice, by those who controlled it, was met with outrage.

Another slap in the face, illuminating the culture of APD, occurred in October 2019, less than two months after Elijah's death. Several other officers returned to the scene, taking pictures while they joyfully reenacted the cardioid hold, used on McClain. In July, 2020, after the photos were made public, three officers were fired and one resigned. It's remarkable that they were fired for mocking and taking pictures, while the officers that killed Elijah were still patrolling the streets. The shouts of "Justice for Elijah", became louder as it seemed this heinous police action was being ignored. Once again, protesters took to the streets.

Protests, investigation, Arrests and trials. Conclusion – "Justice for Elijah" below.

OutOfExile_IDR © 2023

#Justice4Elijah #ActuallyAutistic #BLM #InvisibleDisabilityRights #EndAbleism #POC #EndRacism #change #disability #accommodation #understanding #DisabilityCommunity #SpeakUp4Change #DisabilitySolidarity #MentalHealth #DisabilityRights #decency #dignity #SocialJustice #EndBigotry #PoliceViolence #NoJusticeNoPeace #StopKillingUs #ICantBreathe #TearDownTheWall
@disabilityjustice @disability @actuallyautistics

"Can a Symbol Help Stop the Harm – Disability Designator ID and Disability Deaths" – PART FOUR – The Murder of Christian Glass by Colorado Police:

CONTENT WARNING (CW): the details and videos of this event may be disturbing to some.

Last June 2022: Christian Glass called 911 when his car went off the road in Clear Creek County Colorado near the town of Silver Plume, leaving him stranded in the Rocky Mountains. He told the operator he was very afraid, "coming off of a depression" and said, "I will not be fine on my own". He continued, "if I got out of the car, I might be in danger", also telling the operator about some amateur geology tools he had, which included, a hammer, rubber mallet and two knives. He said "I'm not dangerous. I will keep my hands completely visible" and offered to throw the tools out of the car when police arrived. It sounds like Christian Glass was afraid of interacting with law enforcement. Despite all of the information provided by Christian in the 25 minute call, the 911 operator told police he was "very paranoid" and "not making much sense".

When police arrived, he again offered to throw the tools out of the window which, they told him not to do. Officers commanded him to get out of the vehicle but, he was too afraid. When an officer wielding a firearm asked why, Christian replied, "Sir, I'm terrified". Seven officers were pointing their weapons at him, which would likely have that effect on anyone. Eventually five different agencies were on the scene including the previously mentioned Idaho Springs PD, Colorado State patrol and Georgetown police. Remember, this was a stranded "motorist in distress call", which usually does not require an army. The 911 operator's inaccurate depiction of the call most likely contributed to the militant reaction by police.

The gang of officers attempted to get him out of the car for approximately 70 minutes, during which he made a heart with his hands, blew kisses and prayed. Clear Creek Deputy Andrew Buen shattered the front window and Christian was shot with beanbags. He began to flail in the driver seat when one of the officers yelled, "SOMEONE TASE HIS ASS". Deputy Buen blasted Christian Glass with his stun gun and he began screaming hysterically, "Lord hear me", pleading for mercy from the officers. One officer was heard saying, "you can still save yourself".

Deputy Andrew Buen then shot 22-year-old Christian with his pistol, firing at least five bullets. His body was dragged out of the vehicle and he was pronounced dead on the scene. In a statement the following day, the Clear Creek sheriff's department called him "the suspect", described him as "argumentative and uncooperative" and falsely accused Mr. Glass of attempting to stab an officer. The coroner ruled it a homicide with the cause of death being multiple gunshot wounds. The evidence suggests that Christian Glass feared police so much that, after he was tasered, he tried to stab himself.

Deputy Andrew Buen and his supervisor, Sgt. Kyle Gould, were subsequently charged with: second-degree murder, official misconduct, reckless endangerment (for Buen) and reckless endangerment and criminally negligent homicide (for Gould). Sgt. Gould gave the order to forcibly remove Christian Glass from his vehicle. He was released on only $50,000 bail, while the other Deputy was released on only $2500. They had their first court appearance last December, 2022. Deputy Buen was already accused of excessive force in another $407,000 lawsuit.

The murder of Christian Glass, who was born in New Zealand, and is also a citizen of the UK, made international headlines. The governments of both countries have asked for answers about this case. In May, 2023, the parents of Christian Glass were awarded the largest known police settlement in the history of Colorado and, as a part of the ruling, Clear Creek County was ordered to have a properly trained crisis response team by the year 2025. Because none of the swarm of officers tried to stop this murder, fueled by ignorance and aggression, the $19 million settlement will be paid by all agencies involved as follows:

⦁ Clear Creek County will pay $10 million.
⦁ Georgetown will pay $5 million.
⦁ State of Colorado will pay $3 million for the Colorado State Patrol officer and two Division of Gaming investigators that stood by and watched.
⦁ Idaho Springs, the department that victimized Brady Mystic, will pay $1 million.

$19 million sends a loud message but, unfortunately, it won't bring Christian back. Again the question that comes to mind: Would a symbol or disability identification have saved Christian from this fate? Is it any wonder, that so many with invisible disabilities and mental health challenges are afraid to call for police assistance? How many crimes occur that are not reported for this reason, and how many others have been murdered only to have it covered up.

The final part of this series will cover another high profile murder by the infamous Aurora Colorado police. That case, resulted in a $15 million settlement, which was the largest in that state, prior to the Christian Glass settlement.

Links to parts one, two and three are below.

OutOfExile­_IDR ™ – © 2023

Christian Glass murder: What we know: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/crime/christian-glass-shooting-colorado-video-b2344279.html

Clear Creek deputy who shot Christian Glass was afraid he would stab an officer: https://www.cpr.org/2022/09/15/clear-creek-county-shooting-update/

Judge: "Clear Creek Deputy intentionally and maliciously caused harm" https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/christian-glass-case-motion-dismiss-denied-clear-creek-deputies/

Body cam footage of the moments before Christian's death: https://www.cnn.com/2023/05/23/us/christian-glass-death-colorado-settlements/index.html

Deputies fired and indicted: https://www.cnn.com/2022/11/24/us/christian-glass-colorado-clear-creek-officers-police-shooting/index.html

Largest police settlement in Colorado history: https://www.cpr.org/2023/05/23/christian-glass-settlement-what-we-know-about-the-case/

The Killing of Christian Glass – Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Killing_of_Christian_Glass

PART ONE: https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110710011783405013

PART TWO: https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110732685184804207

PART THREE; https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110738275935209052

#change #accommodation #understanding #DisabilityCommunity #SpeakUp4Change #DisabilitySolidarity #MentalHealth #DisabilityRights #decency #respect #dignity #SocialJustice #InvisibleDisabilityRights #KillerCops #StopKillingUs #TearDownTheWall
@disabilityjustice @disability

"Can a Symbol Help Stop the Harm – Disability Designator ID and Disability Deaths" – PART THREE:

CONTENT WARNING (CW): the events and videos of events may be disturbing to some.

In this segment, I'll be talking about the stories that, aside from personal experience, inspired me to write this series. You'd be surprised how many are unaware of, or just don't care about the damage, death and injustice thrust on the people and their families, solely because they were disabled. Though I view the IDA as an ally and see some value in their NDID program, I do not think a symbol, or Disability ID alone, will stop this plague. Is it coincidence that all of these stories are from the same state… or is it an indication of a culture of hidden hate and Ableism.

September 2019: After parking his car, Brady Mystic was walking into a laundry mat when the lights of a police cruiser focused on him. Two Idaho Springs Colorado police officers, Hanning and Summers, began shouting commands at him to "get back in [his] car". One of the officers tackled him and the other tasered him. The officers claim they witnessed him run a stop sign, beat him, later claiming he resisted arrest and assaulted one of the officers.

When he saw police lights pointed at him, Brady Mystic stopped walking but, had no idea if he was the subject of this attention. Blinded, he could not see, nor could he hear their commands for several very valid reasons. Brady is completely deaf in both ears, verbally limited, predominantly communicates with sign language and does not read lips. He raised his hands in a nonthreatening manner" to communicate his hearing impairment when police tackled, tasered him and beat him. During the attack, he again attempted to make them aware of his disability saying "No ears… No ears" to which, officer Summers responded with a second jolt from her stun gun. He was also falsely accused of assaulting an officer because, during this vicious attack, officer Hanning "had caused himself to break his own leg/ankle".

Brady Mystic then spent the next four months in jail, where his ADA and civil rights were also violated repeatedly. The officers involved, Hanning and Summers, have been accused of, and sued for, use of excessive force in other incidents, one involving a 75-year-old man in his own home. Officer Summers remained on the force but, Mr. Hanning, was fired for that incident.

Idaho Springs PD responded with a rebuttal posted to the website claiming Mr. Mystic approached the police vehicle and was the aggressor, calling it an "attack". An obvious attempt to cover up this heinous act. Where's the body footage? Initially, the only footage provided was from Ofc. Summers body cam at the hospital. The video of the actual event is linked below. Ultimately after four months, the charges were dropped and Brady was released. All this because he was deaf and allegedly ran a stop sign.

The suit against the officers claims "the shocking use of unnecessary police force and wrongful incarceration of a deaf man whom the Defendant officers rashly attacked after failing to recognize his disability and misinterpreting his non-threatening attempts to see and communicate as challenges to police authority."… "...which caused the man to unjustifiably spend months in jail without appropriate accommodations to help him communicate that he was, in fact, the victim.". This type of aggressive, manipulative and rash behavior by authorities is not uncommon in the state of Colorado and, is not limited to this incident. Idaho Springs PD was also at the scene of another more recent murder by police in the next segment.

July 2018: In Aurora Colorado, 73 year old Richard Gary Black Jr. discovered a home intruder that was drowning his 11-year-old grandson in the bathtub. The Vietnam veteran, and recipient of a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, also lived with "significant hearing impairment". When police arrived in response to a 911 call from Black's wife, police observed Gary Black inside his home, holding a flashlight and a legal handgun, attempting to protect his family. Officers shouted aggressive commands for him to drop the weapon but, it seemed obvious he did not hear them. Within 24 seconds of the command, an Aurora officer in the driveway, shot Mr. Black in his home through the open door. Gary died at the hospital a short time later.

This was the second shooting incident in 34 days, involving the officer who killed Mr. Black. The investigation into that June 27th incident, had not even been completed yet. Why was this officer already back on duty? According to one publication, in a press conference three days after the shooting, "...Aurora Police Chief Nick Metz essentially argued that the actions of Richard "Gary" Black Jr., ...caused an officer to fatally shoot him." Mr. Black's hearing impairment seemed to be downplayed and, was even omitted from reports by at least one national networks local affiliate. No charges were brought against the officer.

Aurora has seen multiple incidents of excessive force by police killing people with disabilities, and many without. According to policescorecard.org, Aurora has had "More Police Shootings per Arrest than 52% of Depts". The city's police force was also the subject of a "investigation in which the state's Atty. Gen. found a "pattern and practice" of "using excessive force," and of "failing to document stops as required by law.". The investigation concluded that Aurora PD had broken state and federal law and violated the civil rights of its residents through its policing of minorities.". As a further example of this, the department is facing approximately $14 million in lawsuits stemming from their actions during the George Floyd protests in Denver.

There's also the story of Andre Williams who was tackled, punched in the head and then tasered by police while having a seizure in September 2018. Williams was not the first time Aurora police had harmed someone having a seizure. In 2010, Rickey Burrell was having a seizure prompting his partner to call 911. Upon arrival, two Aurora officers knelt on his back while he was lying face down in his bed, dragged him outside (in winter) wearing only his underwear and, ultimately broke his arm. As part of a 2013 settlement, Aurora was mandated to provide “annual seizure-related training to all of its peace officers by July 2013,” They discontinued that training program in 2016.

Before finishing this series with what is, perhaps, the most famous case involving Aurora PD, I'll be covering a recent case that happened elsewhere. One of the officers in that case was charged with second-degree murder among other offenses. In any of the cases, a Disability ID card would most likely have changed nothing.

OutOfExile­_IDR ™ – © 2023

Brady mystic, deaf man tased and beaten: https://www.npr.org/2021/09/29/1041562502/deaf-man-tased-police-colorado-lawsuit

Brady Mystic and others violated by the same officers: https://lawandcrime.com/lawsuit/two-cops-being-sued-over-tasing-of-elderly-man-face-new-lawsuit-for-arrest-of-deaf-man-who-couldnt-understand-their-commands/

Claim: Notorious Cop Broke His Own Leg While Abusing a Deaf Man: https://www.westword.com/news/deaf-colorado-man-brutal-arrest-lawsuit-nicholas-hanning-brady-mistic-12438119

Body Cam Footage from Brady Mystic Incident: https://www.nbcnews.com/video/bodycam-shows-moments-a-man-who-is-deaf-was-arrested-by-idaho-springs-police-officers-122222661744

Richard (Gary) Black's Actions Led to Police Shooting Death, Aurora Chief Says: https://www.westword.com/news/richard-blacks-actions-led-to-police-shooting-death-aurora-chief-says-10616465

No Mention of Victims Hearing Impairment in News Report (with body cam footage): https://www.9news.com/article/news/crime/no-criminal-charges-for-officer-who-shot-and-killed-homeowner-defending-his-family/73-620524248

Disability is a Hidden Side of Police Violence Epidemic: https://www.vox.com/2016/10/4/13161396/disability-police-officer-shooting

Link to part one: https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110710011783405013

#disability #DisabilityRights #equality #change #InvisibleDisabilityRights #NationalDisabilityID @invisibledisabilitiesassociation #accommodation #understanding #DisabilityCommunity #SpeakUp4Change #DisabilitySolidarity #ActuallyAutistic #TBI #HearingImpairment #aphasia #OCD #MentalHealth #decency #respect #dignity #SocialJustice #StopKillingUs #TearDownTheWall
@actuallyautistics @disabilityjustice @disability

"Can a Symbol Help Stop the Harm – Disability Designator ID and Disability Deaths" –PART TWO:

This piece was expected to be two parts. With the number of stories about people with disabilities being harmed by police, it will require more. A STRONG CONTENT WARNING (CW): the events and linked videos may be disturbing to some.

Reasons for Disability ID Programs:

The nonprofit Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) started the National Disability ID (NDID) for obvious reasons. For individuals that may need additional assistance, the NDID card may be beneficial. In the words of IDA:

"Because people living with invisible disabilities are often looked upon with misunderstanding or disbelief when asking for help, IDA wants to change the experience of millions living with invisible disabilities. Instead of spending time and energy having to explain their disability and validate their need for assistance, it is our desire and goal that they can simply receive the support they need when they display their NDID Card."

As mentioned, several states use the IDA invisible disabilities symbol as part of their disability identifier laws. To be clear, the IDA is a private nonprofit organization and the NDID symbol is their own creation, not a government program. A confidential symbol program has positives for some with disabilities but, protected information should not be in the hands of the DMV or appearing on drivers licenses. A separate card presented along with the license may be a better idea. Much like a "handicap" placard , such cards issued via doctors recommendation, would keep medical information in the hands of doctors. It is important to mention that the various state Disability ID programs are voluntary, not mandated but, the compiling of information and formation of a database for people with invisible disabilities, is a paramount concern. DMV information can be accessed by many. **

Encounters with Law Enforcement and First Responders:

Because an individual with invisible disabilities may avoid eye contact, speak quickly/slowly or appear to be anxious, law enforcement reactions may often include: judgments or assumptions that a person is "acting guilty", "under the influence" or "up to something". Many disabilities are accompanied by: anxiety, avoidance, difficulties focusing, restlessness, trouble understanding instruction, and a variety of communication limitations. Symptomatic reaction, heightened fear and/or emotion may manifest during the simplest of interactions with any first responder. Any of these factors could cause situations to escalate quickly, to the detriment of the person with disabilities. These, combined with lack of understanding about invisible disabilities and aggressiveness on the part of law-enforcement, can make a simple walk to the neighborhood store very dangerous, even deadly for anyone with invisible disabilities.

The IDA presents a few real-life scenarios on their website as an example of the lack of understanding by authorities:

In Ohio, a man with autism was pulled over by police, presented his license but, did not make eye contact. When the man started fumbling around in his car the officer made an assumption he was intoxicated, pulled him out of his car and handcuffed him. The officer later found out the man had autism. Would a disability ID card, have prevented this from happening?

After using an electric scooter to do grocery shopping, a Colorado woman with MS (Multiple Sclerosis) went to her car parked in a handicapped spot. Police then blocked her car in with their vehicle lights flashing. The woman presented an MS ID card, explained her health issue and advise them she DID have a valid handicap placard. The officer responded, "You're not disabled, I saw you walk into the store".

As disgusting and unnecessary as these two examples on the IDA website are, they pale in comparison to some of the other stories:

January 2021: Rochester N.Y. police responding to a call about "family trouble", used unnecessary force on a nine-year-old girl having an obvious mental health crisis. As the child cried, "I want my father", police handcuffed her, put her in the back of the cruiser and pepper sprayed her. Another similar incident occurred in 2022 when El Paso Texas police used a stun gun on a 10-year-old girl experiencing a mental health crisis.

September 2019: a Rio Arriba County New Mexico Deputy tasered a student with developmental disabilities for sassing him. School officials stood by and watched. Former deputy, Jeremy Barnes was fired and charged with "child abuse, false imprisonment and aggravated battery"; however, I see no mention of additional charges specific to abuse of a person with disabilities.

February 2021: A Kansas Sheriff's deputy "hogtied, tasered and used painful compliance techniques" on a 12-year-old autistic child who ran away from a foster home.. The child was handcuffed behind his back, shackled on his ankles and the handcuffs were then connected to the shackles. This "hog tying" tactic has been banned in N.Y., California and other states. The US DOJ warned police departments across the country that this tactic could interfere with the ability to breathe and cause death decades ago. According to the "order of reprimand" that was made public, the Kansas Deputy also use threats and profanities telling the child to “Cut it out. Do you understand? Fucking quit,” adding, “When the other guy gets here, you’re going to hurt more.”

With the boy obviously restrained and not a threat, the report says the officer “...struggled with, shoved, elbowed, applied pressure points, carried, pulled, ‘hog tied,’ and ultimately tasered (the boy referred to as) L.H.” The officer was fired and reprimanded but the Kansas commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training elected not to prevent him from becoming a police officer again. That doesn't seem to be a mention of charges against this officer whom, the report indicates was well aware the child was autistic.

January 2020: An autistic teen who was experiencing "a sudden sensory outburst” related to his autism, died as a result of police in Louisiana sitting on him for nine minutes and six seconds. His parents witnessed the event. Police handcuffed, shackled his ankles and held him facedown on the pavement of a parking lot "putting immense pressure on his back".

November 2015: A six-year-old autistic boy from Louisiana was shot and killed by police after his father, Christopher Few failed to stop for police. The officers that fired their weapons killing the child were Derek Stafford and Norris Greenhouse. After the vehicle came to a stop, body camera footage shows the father Mr. Few, had his hands in the air and it was determined by the investigation that he posed no threat. A Police Lt. on the scene also said Mr. few presented no threat, that's why he did not fire his weapon. No weapons were found in Mr. Few's vehicle and initial reports claimed there was a warrant for his arrest but, Louisiana State Police confirmed this was not true. There were numerous other instances of conflicting information in the case.

One of the officers, Derek Stafford, said he feared (speculated) Mr. Few would backup and hit him with his vehicle. Stafford's attorney claimed that Mr. Few had actually rammed into the vehicle of Officer Greenhouse. The video, and subsequent investigation of the incident refutes these claims. CBS News reported that Investigators say "that was a lie". In total, the two officers fired 18 shots into the vehicle where the man and autistic child were.
Stafford was sentenced to 40 years for manslaughter and 15 years for attempted manslaughter to be served concurrently. Greenhouse was sentenced in total to seven years but, was released in July 2021 after only 21 months. This is 25% of his seven year sentence.

May 2023: Cooma Australia: A 95-year-old woman dies as a result of being tasered by a New South Wales NSW Police constable. After responding to a call at about a woman holding a knife at nursing home, 95-year-old Clare was "urged" to drop a steak knife she was holding. According to police, she began to approach the constable "at a slow pace" using a walking frame (walker), when he discharged his stun gun. Ms. Nowland fell, hitting her head, suffering a skull fracture and brain hemorrhaging. She died as a result of the injuries a week later. The 95-year-old lived with dementia and was described as "frail and unable to stand unaided", weighing only 43 kg (95 pounds). Hardly a threat to anyone, even with a steak knife. The officer was charged with multiple offenses.

Part three will cover other cases including, one of the most well-known. It will also touch on the upcoming trial of the officers that killed the man.

OutOfExile­_IDR ™ – © 2023

Rochester police tasered 9-year-old girl in mental health crisis: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/police-pepper-spray-9-year-old-girl-rochester-n-y-n1256313

Teen with Developmental Disabilities tasered by NM PD for Talking Back: https://www.koat.com/article/attorney-for-developmentally-disabled-boy-wants-deputy-and-schools-officials-charged/27684847

Autistic boy tasered by Kansas PD: https://www.vice.com/en/article/akej98/kansas-police-tased-autistic-boy
https://www.koat.com/article/attorney-for-developmentally-disabled-boy-wants-deputy-and-schools-officials-charged/27684847
Kansas Deputy who tasered autistic child-still a cop?: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/us-news/police-officer-who-used-taser-28164789

Autistic teen dies after Louisiana PD sit on him Https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/15/us/teenager-autism-dies-louisiana-sheriff-lawsuit-trnd/index.html

95-year-old woman dies after being tasered: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-65696475

Louisiana officer who shot 6-year-old autistic boy gets to 55 years: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2017/apr/01/louisiana-officer-derrick-stafford-sentenced-killing-boy-autism
Body cam footage of the event: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/video-of-police-shooting-that-killed-6-year-old-autistic-louisiana-boy-released-jeremy-mardis/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Killing_of_Jeremy_Mardis

#disability #DisabilityRights #equality #change #InvisibleDisabilityRights #accommodation #understanding #DisabilityCommunity #SpeakUp4Change #DisabilitySolidarity #ActuallyAutistic #TBI #HearingImpairment #aphasia #OCD #MentalHealth #decency #respect #dignity #SocialJustice #StopKillingUs #TearDownTheWall
@actuallyautisticgroup @disabilityjusticegroup @disabilitygroup
Half of People Killed by Police Have a Disability: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/half-people-killed-police-suffer-mental-disability-report-n538371

"Can a Symbol Help Stop the Harm – Disability Designator ID and Disability Deaths" –Part one:
(Approx 7 Min. read)

In May, New Jersey passed bill S761, joining 12 other states in creating a "disability identifier" state ID program. With much of the media focus on autism, the law allows some with other disability related communication issues, to have an "official indication of their diagnosis", "notated" on their state issued ID. As a part, NJ will create "guidelines" for law enforcement to better accommodate people with invisible disabilities, through understanding and proper communication; rather than aggression, force, and unfounded assumptions of perpetration. Unlike other states, the NJ legislation appears to exclude many with disabilities and lack forethought regarding the medical privacies of participants.

Even with the positives of various state actions, some feel these efforts may be futile, or accompanied by inherent negatives. Here, I'll be providing details on some of these programs, their potential negatives and, in part two, the reasons for creating them. The focus will be on the tragic stories of some victims that ultimately inspired Invisible Disability ID programs. People, like Elijah McClain and others, whose wrongful deaths resulting from interactions with police and first responders, brought national attention to this epidemic. The harm and loss of life at the hands of those there to serve and protect, is a horrifying thought to many with invisible disabilities, their loved ones; and should be, to anyone of decency.

Alaska, was the first to pass disability ID "designator" legislation with two laws that seem to respect the medical privacies of' disabled citizens. Their "Disability Designator", is a "discrete symbol" on licenses, indicating a "medically verified cognitive, mental, neurological, or physical disability; or a combination thereof". Alaska and other states, use the Invisible Disabilities Association's (IDA) "i" symbol as the "designator". The reasoning behind this optional indicator is the same; to enlighten police and first responders, when they may view a person's communication or behavior as "different" or "unusual". Again, the goal is to prevent escalation and, as in many cases, harm to the individual with disabilities.

Utah's disability designator, is a symbol on a sticker affixed to the ID. As in other states that use a symbol, Utah's program offers more medical confidentiality. It indicates only, that the person has a disability, without revealing diagnosis or specifics. In comparison with NJ's "notation of diagnosis", this seems much less intrusive. Utah's list of "examples of disabilities" covers any physical or mental health issue "that may interfere with the ability to communicate with a law enforcement officer". The list is much more inclusive of all disabilities than the narrow scope of the NJ law, even including diabetes, heart conditions and drug allergies.

The Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA) in Colorado, is a nonprofit organization that spearheads the effort to create the "National Disability ID" (NDID) symbol program. They advocate nationwide with state and federal government, and were part of the 2022 federal identifier bill, HB–7217. Unfortunately, that bill died in committee. The IDA logo, a blue lowercase "i" shaped like a vertical Nike-style "swoosh", is used as Colorado's DL disability identifier as well. They began issuing their NDID–National Invisible Disability ID cards, prior to the passing of any legislation. Below, is an IDA link where people with invisible disabilities can obtain their own NDID, or "International Invisible Disability ID" card with little effort or personal information.

Following Alaska, Colorado passed House Bill HB21–1014, making them the second state to pass "Symbolic" legislation which, also uses the wording "discrete" indicator. The law requires that the symbol on state identifications, must represent all types of disabilities under their program, in a state where history vividly illustrates the need for some type of solution. Colorado police and first responders have been responsible for causing the wrongful deaths of numerous people with invisible disabilities, attracting national attention more than once. The stories covered in part two, include several involving the same police force.

Potential Concerns:

In regard to the NJ action, the following phrase appears in the legislation:
"the chief administrator shall indicate the autism spectrum disorder or communication disorder diagnosis by notating such information on the person's driver's license ...under the column designated for restrictions".

There are many disabilities accompanied by communication limitations, that are not associated with autism, or (as NJ puts it) a "communication disorder". There are also aspects of disabilities, unrelated to communication, that can influence interactions with law-enforcement. Anyone of these may have been a factor in the known examples of police escalation causing harm or death to innocent people. NJ should consider this, designing their law to be more inclusive and respectful of the rights, privacies and protections of its disabled population.

Broadcasting diagnosis on one's license is another concern to some, and raises some questions. How much protected medical information will appear in the NJ "notation"? Will the DMV gather medical history and driver's diagnosis' for its citizens with disabilities, then add unnecessary or unfounded "restrictions" to their licenses? With varying degrees of any disability, a generalized "notation of diagnosis" could present a lot of obvious undue challenges or barriers for many drivers with disabilities.

Aside from police and first responders, there are others that may see the "notation of diagnosis" or identifier symbol on an individual's ID. Identification is shown to many people, including those at stores, restaurants, nightclubs, and hotels. Some stores even scan IDs when "proofing", essentially compiling a database of the information contained in license barcodes. Some feel that individuals could be targeted for discrimination, harassment, exploitation or abuse by corporations, employers, ablests or other unsavory individuals.

For those who do not want the identifier on their license, these reforms may do little. If an individual without the voluntary "identifier" advises police they are disabled, will they be accommodated according to said guidelines? For those with the identifier, these changes are only as good as those who implement them. Will the guidelines and training be designed to actually accommodate or, be just another hollow disability regulation, created by oblivious abled politicians.

Will police abide by the guidelines? Body cams were implemented to prevent misconduct and create accountability. However, frequent claims by police that cameras "fell off", leave many feeling they were intentionally removed to obviate the recording of their transgressions. Will a symbol on a driver's license prevent such unnecessary harm to the disabled? Colorado's designator law passed two years ago but, another murder of someone with invisible disabilities occurred last fall. The individual, experiencing an obvious mental health crisis, called for police assistance after becoming stranded and, was ultimately shot. The many recurring incidences may cause anyone to ask; is the motto to "serve and protect", or to harm and kill?

In part two, I will focus on the people with invisible disabilities, autism, mental health challenges and hearing impairment, that were harmed or murdered by police and first responders. Unfortunately, we cannot ask many of those individuals if they feel a symbol on their license would've changed anything. With all the people that have been lost unnecessarily, this is no longer a #DisabilityCommunity issue – It's something everyone should be standing against.

OutOfExile­_IDR ™ – © 2023

Identification card from IDA: https://invisibledisabilities.org/national-disability-id/national-disability-id-card/

For more on "National Disability Identification" (NDID): http://www.ndid.help/

NJ S761 bill: https://legiscan.com/NJ/bill/S761/2022

Alaska disability designator – GOVERNMENT SITE: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/akol/designator.htm

Utah's list of "examples of disabilities" –GOVERNMENT SITE: https://dld.utah.gov/invisible-condition/

Federal Bill – US HB-7217: https://legiscan.com/US/bill/HB7217/2021

"Invisible Man" image by Nangreenly: https://pixabay.com/users/nangreenly-10829698/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=3843385

#disability #DisabilityRights #equality #change #InvisibleDisabilityRights #NationalDisabilityID #InvisibleDisabilitiesAssociation #accommodation #understanding #DisabilityCommunity #SpeakUp4Change #DisabilitySolidarity #ActuallyAutistic #TBI #HearingImpairment #aphasia #OCD #MentalHealth #decency #respect #dignity #humanity #SocialJustice #EndAbleism #stigmatude #TearDownTheWall

@actuallyautistics
@actuallyautistic @disabilityjustice @disability

The Feds are suing Amazon for alleged "deceptive consumer practices". The FTC action claims that Amazon "tricked" customers into signing up for "Amazon Prime" and then made it difficult for them to cancel.

Amazon and other corporations being difficult and deceptive? This is new information? Does this mean there will be more of this coming for other "giants of commerce"? One would think considering how common this is.

Amazon is known to OutOfExile_IDR for instances of ableism and harrasment by customer service, logistics and, even at the corporate level. "Difficulty" and "deception" has always been a given. Despite the number of interactions in my personal "Amazon experience", I have never been a member nor, have I ever purchased anything from that entity.

Image courtesy of:
https://www.metro.us/anti-amazon-campaigners-in-france/

Story links - Select the "slant".
Pick your publication.

https://www.theverge.com/2023/6/21/23768372/ftc-amazon-lawsuit-prime-dark-patterns-subscriptions

https://www.businessinsider.com/ftc-alleges-amazon-duped-customers-into-prime-subscriptions-2023-6?op=1

https://www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/ftc-sues-amazon-deceptive-prime-sign-cancellation-process-rcna90375

#StopAmazon #FTC #Amazon #Lawsuit #CorporateDeception #Greed #AmAssZon
#AmazonPrime #BuyLocal #EndAbleism #TearDownTheWall #InvisibleDisabilityRights

"10 year Boy with Down Syndrome Assaulted by Bus Driver - Abuse of Students with Invisible Disabilities by Educators"

⚠️ CW - Stories on mistreatment and abuse of students with invisible disabilities in schools across the country. May be disturbing to some.

Yesterday, a bus driver for the Upper Darby school district in Pennsylvania, was charged with assault, unlawful restraint, false imprisonment, and endangering the welfare of a child.

Juliet Pratt was captured on surveillance cameras, duct taping the a student with Downs Syndrome around the ankles and chest to restrain him. The footage also show the child, who was already in a safety harness, caused no disturbance and remained in his seat. Regardless,  nothing warrants this kind of abusive behavior to people with invisible disabilities, especially by someone involved in child education. The March 8th incident was not the only. The bus driver admitted doing this appalling act to the child, at least one other time. Pratt cut the tape restraints with a seat belt cutter to free the boy upon arrival at the school.

There seems to be no mention of charges related to disability protectections in news reports. Has she done this to others? Would she have done this if the child did not have a disability? If Ms. Pratt singled the child out for this treatment because of any disability related reason, (ie - thinking she could get away with it because of the boy's DS), authorities may want to consider this an ableist hate crime.

Unfortunately, this problem is not uncommon. In some places, the techniques used are legal, bringing harm to many students with invisible disabilities. In Virginia, a 10 year old autistic boy, had the "bones in his hand and foot crushed" by an educator. The injuries were caused by a staff member who was isolating and confining the child, in what was called the "scream room".

Many reports of similar abuses have surfaced in Connecticut schools as well. In one case, a second grader with ADHD was held down, and locked in confinement after a manifestation of symptoms. Aside from the mental and emotional wounds caused, just as in many other cases, the child suffered physically injury. According to the story linked below, students have been restrained and isolated "thousands of times causing dozens of injuries" in Connecticut schools. This hardly sounds like accommodation and community intergration.

Then, there's Xavier Hernandez, who died as a result if being held down and restained by multiple staff members at "Boulevard Heights" school for "students with disabilities" in Texas.

These are the people entrusted with the job of shaping young minds? What lesson does this type of behavior teach other students about interacting with people with invisible disabilities; that they should be restrained, isolated and subjected to physical and mental damage? Considering these, and many other such acts, it seems many educators could use a lesson on understanding and accommodation of persons with invisible disabilities.

© OutOfExile_IDR - Invisible Disability Rights

PA Bus Driver:
https://www.phillyvoice.com/school-bus-driver-duct-tape-upper-darby-student-delaware-county/

https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/bus-driver-accused-of-duct-taping-10-year-old-boy-on-bus/3575865/

Boy with autism in Virginia:
https://www.propublica.org/article/schools-restraints-seclusions

Girl with ADHD and other abuse in Connecticut:
https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/connecticut-schools-restraint-seclusion-injuries-17474991.php

Xavier Hernandez death from a disability standpoint:
https://neuroclastic.com/xavier-hernandez-fort-worth-autism-restraint-death/#content

Hernandez - Death by medication and restraint:
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/crossroads-lab/article253421369.html

Image courtesy of: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/young-disabled-students-shackled-misbehaving-lawsuit-claims-n403421

#Education #ActuallyAutistic #ADHA #PTSD #CPSTD #ChildEducation #abuse #advocacy #disability #InvisibleDisability #TBI #InvisibleDisabilityRights #DownSyndrome #BrainInjury #EndAbleism #AbleistHateCrime #accommodation #CommunityIntergration #stigmatude #TearDownTheWall
#DOE #action #DepartmentOfEducation

@actuallyautistic @disabilityjustice @disability

@taon
Shopping at "Target" and vacationing in Florida should be boycotted for much more than a day in response to the Ableist and anti-LGBTQIA actions of both.

Desantis - Florida:
https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110381275316663044

Target removes Pride:
https://kolektiva.social/@OutOfExile_IDR_Voice/110426005931337191

#boycott #TargetStores #exclusion #EndAbleism #StopHomophobia #censorship #CivilRights #LGBTQRights #EndBigotry #equality #inclusion #diversity #Desantis #Florida #fascism #StopHate #Love4All #LoveOneAnother #TearDownTheWall

#Target, who is well known to OutOfExile_IDR - Invisible Disability Rights for acts of #ableism, has now turned it's sights to exclude the #LGBTQIA+ community. If you'd like a t-shirt printed with sayings that force religious beliefs or threaten gun violence, no problem. If you want certain "pride" clothing, Target says, not in our stores.

The retail tyrant... I retail mean giant, announced "it was taking some LGBTQ-themed merchandise off the shelves", citing "anti-LGBT threats". They seem to be making it clear who their preferred "Target market" is. Who will they "Target" next?

https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/-target-pride-merchandise-lgbtq-designers-pulled-criticism-rcna86036

#boycott #TargetStores #exclusion #StopHomophobia #censorship #InvisibleDisabilityRights #EndAbleism #LGBTQRights #EndBigotry #TearDownTheWall

“Fascism in Florida? - DeSantis defunds equality in education and attacks inclusion… Again.

Florida's Burgermeister, Despicable Desantis signs legislation to #defund diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs at state colleges and universities.  A link to Florida “Senate bill-266” is below with others regarding “Raging Ron’s” recent campaigns against personal choice.  DeSantis has been very busy undermining individual freedom in many ways.

The signing of SB-266, which prohibits public universities from using state funds for (DEI) diversity, equity and inclusion programs, seems likely to effect all marginalized groups in the Sunshine State, including the #DisabilityCommunity.  Will the Americans with Disabilities Act be under attack next?   Will this lead to a rash of violations of the ADA?

The LGBTQIA+ community was not excluded from Florida’s acts of exclusion.  Aside from SB-266, Desantis’ signing of Senate Bill 1580, allows “healthcare providers and insurers to deny a patient care on the basis of religious, moral, or ethical beliefs”. Considering the absence of morals or ethics with many, this is outright dangerous.
The bill also “bars Medical Boards from disciplining doctors for spreading misinformation”.   SB-1580 also opens the door for discrimination in hiring.

Will the “religious, ethical or moral beliefs” of some providers be used to exclude individuals practicing Judaism or Islam from receiving medical treatment, as well.   “Sorry, the doctor will not see you now because you are not Christian, CIS/HET, white, abled, neurotypical or a fascist“.   Is this a preview of what to expect if he is elected in 2024?

Just like an annoying infomercial,  “wait there’s more".  A 5th grade Hernando county teacher is under state investigation for showing the Disney movie Strange World to her class, because it has a gay character.  The storyline of a boy who had a crush on another boy was called “inappropriate”.  Will Florida ask Disney to stop making such movies or ask them to leave the state, citing “indoctrnation" to the “woke agenda"?

Florida's economy relys heavily on tourism.  There is no state income tax because of tourist spending and sales tax.  Perhaps defunding Florida by vacationing elsewhere is one good way to respond.   FYI, #California oranges are equally equal delicious and do not have that aftertaste of blatant bigotry.  Perhaps, the state may want to consider replacing the “orange” on their license plate with another food item… a loaf of white bread. 

Don't forget the ALT text.

Desantis defunds DEI: https://www.npr.org/2023/05/15/1176210007/florida-ron-desantis-dei-ban-diversity

What is SB266: https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/whats-sb-266-desantis-signs-college-culture-war-bill-into-law/3034800/

SB 266, the bill: https://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/266

SB 1580, “A License to Discriminate in Healthcare": https://www.hrc.org/press-releases/breaking-gov-desantis-signs-extreme-license-to-discriminate-healthcare-bill

Truthout .org on SB 1580: https://truthout.org/articles/floridas-latest-anti-lgbtq-law-legalizes-medical-discrimination/

Advocate .com on SB 1580: https://www.advocate.com/politics/ron-desantis-discriminate-law-lgbtq

SB 1580, the bill: https://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1580

“Florida teacher investigated by DeSantis admin for showing Disney Film" (USA Today):
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/education/2023/05/14/florida-teacher-investigated-by-desantis-admin-for-showing-disney-film/70216872007/

Disney vs DeSantis history: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2023-04-26/everything-to-know-about-the-disney-desantis-fight

Disney – DeSantis feud timeline: https://www.usatoday.com/in-depth/graphics/2023/05/16/graphics-timeline-illustrates-bitter-details-of-disney-desantis-dispute/11750086002/

Disney vs DeSantis goes to class: https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/23/05/32425717/disney-vs-desantis-now-goes-directly-to-classroom-with-teacher-under-investigation

#CivilRights #InvisibleDisabilityRights #EndAbleism #EndRacism #LGBTQIARights #BLM #WomensRights  #EndBigotry #StopAsianHate #disability #DisabilitySolidarity #MarginalizedCommunitiesUnite #UnityConquers #equality #inclusion #diversity #TearDownTheWall  #desantis #florida #fascism #StopHate #Love4All #LoveOneAnother #Hypochristians

Neurodivergent people have much to offer and should be included in policy and legislation discussions among other things. Different thinking brings new ideas for a broader, more enlightened view. Remember when the world was thought to be flat?

E.A.R.N. - The Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion provides a "Toolkit" educating employers about Neurodivergent Thinkers and the unique value they bring. The guide linked below includes a lot of info encouraging the hiring and accommodation of neurodivergent individuals.

From the EARN page:
"In 2019, the Employer Roundtable published the “Autism @ Work Playbook” ...to help employers explore innovative approaches to finding, recruiting, hiring and supporting neurodivergent workers."

Thanks to EARN for their part in helping to #TearDownTheWall. Without #NeurodivergentThinking, there would be no light bulbs, spaceflight, or internet. There would be no Star Trek communicator to inspire the mobile phone. If one day, we can use our phones to say "beam me up", Neurodivergent Thinkers will likely "energize" that advancement as well.

Link to EARN's toolkit:
https://bit.ly/3QyN6aR

Image from this article discussing employers ND stigmatude:
https://www.theglobalrecruiter.com/neurodivergent-failure/

#neurodiversity #neurodivergence #OutsideTheBox #disability #inclusion #diversity #stigmatude
#accommodation #ActuallyAutistic #BrainInjury #TBI #dyslexia #EndAbleism #DisabilitySolidarity #NeurodivergentAndProud #InvisibleDisabilityRights

@pezmico
Bravo for this post. Ask the Rightligious Christian organization called "Sunday Breakfast Mission" and they would add isolation to the list.

One of their programs to "help" people that are poor, homeless and struggle with addiction requires participants to give up cell phones and have no contact with the outside world, including loved ones.

I guess it's easier to brainwash people that way.

#ReligiousAbuse #DisabilityEconomicJustice #InducedPoverty #control #Hypochristian #coercion #EndHomelessness #Love4All #Love2All #TearDownTheWall

From many of us way down here in the abyss, it doesn't matter what color the tie or who's got a wooden hammer. Things are likely not going to change.

As walter Cronkite used to say, "and you we're there" #woodstock94 was great and Henry Rollins spoke to us.

#politicians #liar #HenryRollinsBand #metal #punk #truth #grey #TearDownTheWall #LetThemEatCake #CakeSucks #equality #TearDownTheWall #DisabilityEconomicJustice #InvisibleDisabilityRights

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=h0nP2a42Ccc

Humor with some reality.  The ice cream shops first name was actually real, as was the uproar.

 I was born in a very small bigoted town.

A lesbian couple opened an Ice cream shop and called it "Lickety Split" (for real).

The reverend and mayor got all the bigoted citizens up in arms to protest for the shop to change it's name.

 The owners of the ice cream shop gladly obliged.  They changed the name from "Lickety Split" to "The Vajay-Jay Cone - Home of the Banana-less Split"

Interesting side note. The mayor was recently busted for selling crack. (for real)

#humor #comedy #EndBigotry #LGBTQIARights #Solidarity #TearDownTheWall #Love4All

My brain is not always helpful but, this flub combining two words was.

Stigmatude:

The attitude personified by lack of understanding and acceptance of people living with invisible disabilities and mental illness, that ableists and many others perpetuate.

Do you think Websters should add it to the dictionary?

Migrated reboot. #stigmatude #ableism #equality #inclusion #InvisibleDisabilities #MentalHealth #InvisibleDisabilityRights #TBI #Love4All #TearDownTheWall

It is an historical fact that the privileged groups seldom give up their privileges voluntarily. Individuals may see the moral light and voluntarily give up their unjust posture, but, as we are reminded, groups tend to be more immoral than individuals .

We know, through painful experience that! freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor, it must be demanded by the oppressed.
-Martin Luther King Jr.

#inspiration #CivilRights #InvisibleDisabilityRights #EndAbleism #EndRacism #LGBTQRights #WomensRights #StopAsianHate #EndBigotry #UnityConquers #TearDownTheWall

New: Revised Hashtag Intro.
Click here 🧠 to expand.
The Proverbial list Evolved:

Focus:
:solidarity: #DisabilitySolidarity #DisabledCommunity #EndAbleism #InvisibleDisabilityRights #StopAbleistHate #DisabilityAdvocacy #passionate #DisabledVoicesUnite #CrossDisabilitySupport #inclusion #ListeningEar #Here4All #NeurodivergentThinking #neurodiversity
#ConcussionAwareness #TBI #ABI #AnoxicBrainInjury #BrainInjury #SpineInjury #fibromyalgia #LimbDifference #ActuallyAutisic #OrthopedicDisabilities #SticksAndStones #BrokenBones #NaturesPharmaceutical #DisabilityAcceptance #EndAbleistHateCrime #StopAbleistSlurs #DisabilityEconomicJustice #CripTheVote #DisabilityLobby #HumanInterest #NonPartisan #research #Education #Knowledge
#UnityConquers #TearDownTheWall
:solidarity:

Behind and beside in :solidarity: : #CivilRights #MentalHealth #EndRacism #EndBigotry #LandBack #gratitude Kahnawá:ke #LGBTQIA #BLM #WomenRights #EqualPay #StopViolence #StopAsianHate #POC #EndBigotry for #everyone
#BeYou #BeNice
#UnityConquers #TearDownTheWall :solidarity: !!

Un peu de moi?
Je ne parle pas couramment Français. I like using #HastagsNobodyWillEverSearch
#FilmMaking #Writing #poetry
Ex-#musician #Songwriter Passé
💐⚘🌺🏵 #GardenCreator extraordinaire. #FlowerGardens
Et Bien plus encore

Original profile is informational only.
@OutOfExile_IDR@disabled.social

New posts and communication will originate from § Voice and § Deux: @OutOfExile_IDR@neurodifferent.me
The character count affords me accommodation.
🙏, ✌️, 💛, :solidarity: #accommodation for "👥🫂👤" with #InvisibleDisabilities
Just like many of us, this list is incomplete and still evolving.

Don't forget the ALT text.

It is an historical fact that the privileged groups seldom give up their privileges voluntarily. Individuals may see the moral light and voluntarily give up their unjust posture, but, as we are reminded, groups tend to be more immoral than individuals .

We know, through painful experience that! freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor, it must be demanded by the oppressed.
-Martin Luther King Jr.

#inspiration #CivilRights #InvisibleDisabilityRights #EndAbleism #EndRacism #LGBTQRights #WomensRights #StopAsianHate #EndBigotry #UnityConquers #TearDownTheWall