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More than 700 self-advocates, family members, service providers, disability rights leaders and community partners from across California traveled to Sacramento last week for the 19th Annual DisCo at the Capitol: California Disability Community Advocacy Conference presented by The Arc of California , Association of Regional Center Agencies (ARCA), Easterseals and United Cerebral Palsy of California.
The two-day event brought together California’s disability community for advocacy, celebration, education and connection during a pivotal moment for disability rights and services.
The evening reception kicked off with energy and excitement as attendees enjoyed a special book signing with actress, author and advocate Sofia Sanchez. Artists from Studio 700 of The Arc of Placer County showcased and sold their artwork, highlighting the creativity and talent of artists with disabilities.
Attendees were also surprised by a special appearance from Orange County U.S. Congressman Lou Correa, who energized the crowd ahead of the conference’s advocacy day at the Capitol.
A highlight of the evening was a special program commemorating the 60th Anniversary of California’s Regional Center System. Speakers reflected on the progress made over six decades and the importance of continuing to protect and strengthen community-based services for people with developmental disabilities. Featured speakers included The Arc of California Board President Pat Hornbecker, Actor John Tucker, Associate Director of ARCA Tony Anderson, Golden Gate Regional Center Executive Director Eric Zigman, The Arc of San Francisco Executive Director Kristen Pedersen, and Associate Director of The Lanterman Regional Center Rose Chacana.
The celebration continued when the dynamic musical duo MC Down & DJ Hymn got attendees moving, grooving and celebrating together.
Day two focused on advocacy, inspiration and community action. The conference honored The Kelsey and Easterseals Disability Film Challenge with the prestigious California Disability Innovation in Advocacy Award for their groundbreaking work advancing inclusion and opportunity for people with disabilities.
Sofia Sanchez returned to co-host the conference alongside The Arc of California Executive Director Jordan Lindsey, helping guide attendees through a day filled with powerful stories and advocacy.
Attendees also heard inspiring presentations from disability advocates Adan Correa and John Tucker (AKA MC Down), who shared personal stories about advocacy, inclusion and the importance of using your voice to create change.
Following legislative meetings and lunch, attendees wrapped up the conference with one of the event’s most popular traditions — the Silent DisCo featuring MC Down, DJ Hymn and DJ Lady Char. Attendees also enjoyed complimentary popsicles from Sofia Sanchez’s 321 Pop mobile popsicle stand.
The Arc of California and event partners extend sincere gratitude to the many sponsors whose generous support helped make this event possible and ensured advocates from across California could participate:
Waymo, Chick-fil-A, Pacific Homecare Services, Tierra del Sol Foundation, The Arc of SanDiego, College of Adaptive Arts, Desert Arc, Home of Guiding Hands, Pediatric Day Health Care Coalition, Public Partnerships PPL, Hope Services, Therap Services, 24 Hour Home Care, Cookman Law, Faria Engineering and Surveying, Fragile X Association of Southern California, Law Offices of Chad Carlock, PathPoint, Ruzzo Scholl & Murphy, Station 16, UCP of the North Bay, Luther and Amy Nishimura, Pat and Tim Hornbecker, Felisa Strickland, Dr. Lou Vismara
View media coverage, event photos and highlights from the conference:
- News Coverage by KCRA 3 and KTLX 10:
- True Love Photography Event Photos: