Wear green and join disability advocates at the Minnesota State Capitol Rotunda at 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 17. In the face of a dismal state budget, people with disabilities are facing more cuts to services that enable them to live independently in their communities.

This year, MCIL is collaborating with the Minnesota State Council on Disability (MSCOD), the Minnesota Association of Centers for Independent Living (MACIL) and the Direct Support Professionals Association of Minnesota (DSPAM) on the statewide Disability Day at the Capitol. This day is a chance for consumers and their allies across the entire state to meet with representatives and senators.

Participants will meet in the rotunda at 10 a.m., with a welcome to the day and introduction on how to talk with legislators, followed by brief comments by legislative leadership. Speakers from both the House and Senate will talk at 11 a.m. about issues facing consumers with disabilities in the upcoming session. In the afternoon, consumers can stop by their legislators’ offices and talk with them.

Participants are urged to meet with senators and representatives from their home districts. Anyone wanting to meet with a specific representative or senator should make an appointments at least a week ahead of time. Be ready to briefly tell your story about how cuts to disability programs have affected you. To find out who your legislators are, go to: www.leg.state.mn.us/

Materials will be handed out about disability concerns and with locations of legislator offices. Maps will also be provided. For more information, and to register, contact Betty Culver, 651-646-8342 or bettyc@mcil-mn.org . Please indicate needs for accommodation when registering.

Ann Roscoe is the public policy person for Metropolitan Center for Independent Living.