Take Action: Demand Disability Justice in the COVID-19 Response

The COVID-19 pandemic imposes ongoing and disproportionate health and financial hardships on individuals and families impacted by disabilities and strains the direct support professional (DSP) workforce that supports them. It is critical that the next Congressional coronavirus relief bill includes provisions to address at least the most conspicuous and urgent needs facing the disability community.

As United Methodists, “we urge the church and its people to stand alongside people with disabilities and to speak out on their rights in society.” (Book of Resolutions 3302).

Therefore, we join our disability justice partners across the nation to demand:

  • Dedicated funding for Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS), which enables people with disabilities to be served in their homes and communities, limiting their risk of being put in institutions.
  • Access to critical personal protective equipment (PPE) for direct support professionals by designating them as essential workers.
  • Paid leave for all family caregivers in legislative emergency leave provisions so families themselves can determine how best to access paid leave and sick days to help their loved ones.
  • Economic impact payments for all people with disabilities including adults with disabilities who are claimed as dependents.

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation that includes needed provisions for members of the disability community and direct support professionals. Contact your Senators and demand that these and other important provisions remain in the bill that ultimately passes Congress.