Speaking For Ourselves, 25 Years of Self-Advocacy  
   
  
 
 
 
 

 

Principles of Self-Determination

Freedom:
The exercise of the same rights as all citizens. People with disabilities, with assistance when necessary, will establish where they want to live, with whom they want to live and how their time will be occupied. They do not have to trade their inalienable rights guaranteed under the Constitution for supports or services.

Authority:
The control of whatever sums of money are needed for one's own support, including the re-prioritizing of these dollars when necessary. This is accomplished through the development of an individual budget that "moves" with the person.

Support:
The organization of these resources as determined by the person with a disability. This means that individuals do not receive "supervision" and "staffing". Rather, folks with disabilities may seek companionship for support and contract for any number of discrete tasks for which they need assistance.

Responsibility:
The wise use of public dollars. Dollars are now being used as an investment in a person's life and not handled as resources to purchase services or slots. Responsibility included the ordinary obligations of American citizens and allows individuals to contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.

 

 

 
 
     
   

100 West Main Street
Suite 510                               Lansdale, PA 19446

 

1-800-867-3330
VOICE 215-361-3100
FAX: 215-361-3101
info@speaking.org

       

© 2008 Speaking For Ourselves