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The California Latino Disability Community Leadership Summit took place at the San Diego Regional Center on December 5-6, 2024. The summit gathered a diverse group of California leaders, advocates, self-advocates, regional center representatives, and members from Association of Regional Center Agencies (ARCA) and the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). All participants were united in their commitment to improving the lives of Latino Californians with disabilities.
The summit welcomed 41 leaders from various organizations engaged in meaningful dialogue and collaboration. The two-day summit was marked by inspiring moments that emphasized the power of collective action and the importance of building capacity for leadership within the Latino disability community. The summit served as a vital step toward developing a more inclusive and equitable future for Latino Californians with disabilities and their families.
Joe Perales, Director of El Arc de California and Grace Huerta, Vice President, The Arc of California Board of Directors and Chair, El Arc de California, opened the event by emphasizing the collective mission of equity and inclusion. Their message was further amplified by opening remarks from Pete Cervika, Interim Director of DDS, who emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “Events like these are vital in fostering collaboration and driving meaningful progress.” I am inspired by the dedication of this community and look forward to the systemic change we will achieve together.”
Michi Gates, Chief Deputy Director of DDS, shared heartfelt welcoming remarks, stating, “It is a privilege to join such a dedicated group of leaders and advocates at this summit. The work we do together is essential in breaking down barriers and ensuring equity for all individuals with disabilities. I am inspired by the passion and commitment in this room, and I look forward to seeing the transformative impact of our collaboration.”
Mark Klaus, Executive Director of San Diego Regional Center (SDRC), who hosted the meeting, added, “This gathering represents a critical step in our shared journey toward equity and inclusion. I am deeply inspired by the dedication and vision of everyone in this room, and I am confident that together, we will create a lasting impact for the communities we serve.”
Dynamic Sessions and Hands-On Training:
The agenda of the summit was designed to inspire action and provide practical knowledge. The sessions covered a variety of topics:
- Grassroots Organizing and Power Building: Led by Jordan Lindsey, Executive Director of The Arc of California, this session emphasized community mobilization and empowering advocates. Jordan outlined strategies for building grassroots movements, focusing on community strengths, collective power, and sustainable networks. He shared real-world examples of successful efforts and provided actionable steps for participants to apply in their communities, inspiring a view of advocacy as a collaborative endeavor that highlights the power of collective action.
- Chris Arroyo, the Los Angeles Regional Manager of the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, led a discussion on civic understanding, systemic change, and policy influence. He introduced the “Three Ps”—People, Politics, and Purse—as a framework for advocacy, emphasizing their interconnectedness in driving reform and offering actionable steps for participants.
The Latino Disability Community Leadership Summit was more than just a series of sessions; it was a catalyst for change. Participants left with a stronger sense of purpose, armed with tools to drive systemic advocacy, and a renewed commitment to addressing disparities. The connections forged among leaders and advocates strengthened the collective efforts to advance equity.
Acknowledgments:
El Arc de California extends its deepest gratitude to the sponsors and supporters who made the summit possible. Special thanks go to the San Diego Regional Center for hosting the event, as well as to Manos Home Care, Easterseals, Aveanna, The Arc of San Diego, and The Arc of Ventura County for their generous contributions.
To view images from the summit, click HERE