On February 4th and 5th, our EIDS (Eastern Idaho Down Syndrome Family Connect) board traveled to Boise to participate in the state-wide Fred Rigger’s Disability Advocacy Day. During our stay, we participated in a training on how to best advocate and share our stories with legislators. We also learned about the most pressing issues in the disability advocacy world. Right now, the Medicaid cuts are concerning and stressful, so we focused primarily on that issue.
 

After our training, our board met with several legislators, including Rep. Bingham, Rep. Veile, Rep. Weber, Rep. Furhiman, Rep. Raybould, and Rep. Furniss.

We were very impressed by their depth of care and level of knowledge about the importance of Medicaid services to our disability population. While no decisions have been made, we are hopeful the legislators will continue to see the value of our individuals with Down syndrome and disabilities and their Medicaid services.

The legislators encouraged us to continue speaking with more legislators and to emphasize the importance of Medicaid services. If you are unable to travel to the Capitol in Boise, you can still help. Please email or call your legislators and share your lived experience of how Medicaid services have positively impacted your child with Down syndrome or any disability.

We can make an impact, never forget the power of your voice and lived experiences. Please email us at info@easternidahodownsyndrome.org if you have any questions or need help connecting with your legislators.