Voting & Policy Resources from Leading Disability Groups

I have my own opinions and biases, so I want to offer several other resources to help you educate yourself about the issues that are important in the 2012 election and give you several ways to register to vote and make sure that everyone you know votes, including those with disabilities. Here are a few of the best resources I've found. Do you have others to share?

The Arc's "Get Involved" Section
This website section summarizes issues important to The Arc, a detailed comparison of the party platforms, and summaries of Medicaid, civil rights, education, employment, Social Security, and other issues. Also links for register to vote and get to the polls. Do you know that in 2008, the voter turnout rate for people with disabilities was 7.2 percent lower than people without disabilities? The Arc's theme for this election year is "We've Got the Power. Vote in 2012."

Autism Speaks Election Center
Includes a summary of policy principles, a link for voter registration, and signup for Autism Votes to get involved and to receive action alerts. Also a news section that tracks the candidates.

Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
This is a coalition of about 100 national disability organizations working together to advocate for national public policy that ensures the self-determination, independence, empowerment, integration and inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in all aspects of society. Their site has excellent commentaries on issues of importance to people with disabilities and their families.

Disability Scoop

Disability Scoop is a nonpartisan website that calls itself "the premier source for developmental disability news" -- and it's hard for me to argue with that description. Over the next few weeks, you might want to follow their political news. And in general, I highly recommend the website as a news source, and you should consider signing up for their weekly emails.