Council Vice-Chair Daniese McMullin-Powell, Vice Chair and Council Member Derrick George discussed the work of the group, to advocate and advise on issues relating to the state’s disabled, in employment, housing and other issues. We started with a brief look at the council, member include not just the diabled, but also parents, guardians or caregivers of disabled unable to represent themselves, as well as representatives from health care, state agencies on social services aging and other organizations. Derrick encourages more participation by the disabled in the committee. We discussed inclusion, not just in basic employment and housing, but social integration into the community. They discussed employment issues and their work to abolish the minimum wage exception, employers can be allowed to pay pennies on the hour, an exception granted only to those who employ the disabled. We spoke about the ‘Catch 22’ of work – benefits and some entitlements keep disabled in poverty. They discussed the May Pride Day, its celebration of individuals and how they really live, including relationships, jobs and homelife, noting that the website and podcast content is uniquely theirs. Finally, a look at the annual Life Conference which includes the non-disabled parents and caregivers, social workers, and service providers.
The Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council