Tag: Jordan Lindsey

Advocacy Works: Indiana Shows What’s Possible

By Jordan Lindsey, Executive Director, The Arc & UCP California Collaboration

At a time when the rights of people with disabilities face renewed legal threats, The Arc of Indiana has delivered a powerful reminder: advocacy works, and it matters now more than ever.

As of May 2026, Indiana has officially withdrawn from Texas v. Kennedy, a multi-state lawsuit that poses a serious threat to the core principles of the landmark Olmstead v. L.C. decision. At stake were key protections under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, including protections that help ensure people with disabilities can live, work, and receive services in their communities, rather than being unnecessarily institutionalized.

This lawsuit initially included 17 states and sought to challenge the federal integration mandate by arguing that these protections were unconstitutional. The implications were profound: a successful challenge could have weakened decades of progress toward community inclusion.

But advocates didn’t stay silent.

The Arc of Indiana, alongside self-advocates, families, and partners, mobilized quickly and effectively. They elevated the voices of Hoosiers with disabilities, made the risks clear, and ensured that decision-makers understood what was truly at stake. Because of this sustained and strategic advocacy, Attorney General Todd Rokita withdrew Indiana from the lawsuit.

This is a meaningful victory—and a testament to the power of collective action.

At the same time, the fight is not over. The lawsuit continues, now with fewer states, and is moving toward the Supreme Court. The outcome could still impact disability rights nationwide, including here in California.

That’s why Indiana’s success is both a moment to celebrate and a call to action.

Progress happens when people speak up, organize, and stay engaged. It happens when communities refuse to accept policies that put rights at risk. And it depends on all of us continuing to advocate at the local, state, and national levels.

The Arc of Indiana has shown what’s possible. Now it’s up to all of us to keep the momentum going.

Because advocacy works, and we must keep fighting.

Hope and Unity: Charting a Positive Path Forward

Dear Friends,

On behalf of all of us at The Arc of California, we hope you are enjoying a peaceful holiday season and a gentle close to the year. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Yule, another tradition, or no holiday at all, our hope for you is simple: that you feel supported, connected, and not alone. This time of year invites reflection and rest. It’s a moment to pause, to take care of ourselves and one another, and to draw strength from the relationships that carry us forward.

Our community is built on shared experiences, mutual care, and the deep knowledge that we are stronger when we stay connected. This year has been a testament to our resilience and unwavering commitment to our mission. We continue to advocate for the rights and well-being of people with disabilities and creating a more inclusive society.

As we look forward to the year ahead, we do so together. We are grounded in compassion, renewed by rest, and ready to protect and preserve the services and supports that our community relies on. We are filled with renewed energy and determination to continue our advocacy. Whatever challenges come, you are invited to be a part of the community that shows up, listens, and keeps moving forward side by side.

Embarking on this journey into 2026, let us remember that our strength lies in our unity. Families are at the core of our support. You are the foundation upon which our movement was built and continue to be our greatest allies. Together, we can achieve great things and create a future where everyone is afforded the same opportunities and protections.

Thank you for being part of The Arc of California community and for your unwavering support and dedication. We look forward to continuing this journey together in the year ahead.

With warmth and gratitude,

Pat Hornbecker, President, The Arc of California Board of Directors

Jordan Lindsey, Executive Director, The Arc and UCP California Collaboration

…and all of us at The Arc of California

Reflections on The Arc’s 75th Anniversary National Convention

By Jordan Lindsey, Executive Director, The Arc and UCP California Collaboration

Last week, I had the privilege of attending The Arc of the United States’ National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, marking the organization’s 75th anniversary. It was energizing to be surrounded by chapter leaders, self-advocates, families, and partners from across the country who are all working to advance the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

A highlight of the event was the keynote conversation with Judy Woodruff, a renowned journalist and longtime disability advocate. Hearing her speak about the power of personal stories—and how her own family experience has shaped her work—was incredibly moving. Her remarks were a timely reminder that our voices and lived experiences remain the driving force behind meaningful policy change.

Throughout the convention, sessions underscored The Arc’s leadership over the past 75 years—from advocating for community inclusion to helping secure landmark laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It was grounding to reflect on how far our movement has come, and inspiring to see how chapters nationwide are carrying this legacy forward.

As I return to California, I’m energized by the shared commitment across the country to protecting rights, expanding opportunities, and ensuring full inclusion for people with disabilities. I look forward to bringing this momentum into our work in the year ahead.

A link to photos from the convention will be added HERE when they become available.

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