ECNV's Be in the Know: February 2024
Here is news of interest for the disability community!
February is Low Vision Awareness Month
Millions of people in the United States are living with a visual impairment. A visual impairment can make it hard to do everyday activities, like getting around, reading, or cooking. And it can’t be fixed with glasses, contacts, or other standard treatments, like medicine or surgery.
The good news is that vision rehabilitation services can help people with a visual impairment make the most of the vision they have — and keep doing the things they love. Take some time this Low Vision Awareness Month to learn about vision rehabilitation and spread the word!
National Eye Institute Resources ››
Black History Month
February is Black History Month
During Black History Month, it is important to highlight the contributions and resilience of individuals with disabilities within the African American community. From civil rights activist like Harriet Tubman, who overcame a traumatic head injury to become a leading abolitionist, to legendary boxer, Muhammad Ali, who struggled with dyslexia throughout his life, he became a global icon, not only for his sporting achievement but his outspoken advocacy for civil rights and social justice. Their stories exemplify the strength and determination of disabled Black pioneers. Other figures like Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles have not only left a permanent mark on music but have also shattered stereotypes about what individuals with disabilities can achieve. Their legacies remind us that disability does not define one’s potential, and their accomplishments continue to inspire generations to break barriers and strife for equality.
Black Disability Leaders You Should Know About ››
The Census Bureau Is Dropping a Controversial Proposal to Change Disability Statistics
On Tuesday, February 6, 2024, The U.S. Census Bureau announced in a blog post that they are no longer moving forward with a controversial proposal that could have shrunk a key estimated rate of disability in the United States by about 40%. The announcement comes just over two weeks after the bureau said the majority of the more than 12,000 public comments it received about proposed changes to its annual American Community Survey cited concerns over changing the survey's disability questions.
Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) All-Access Book Club
The All-Access Book Club meets on the first Thursday of every month at 11:00 a.m. via conference call. They read a variety of books, wonder at the author's ability to so successfully (or not) manipulate our feelings, and have an engaging conversation. Titles selected are available in the talking books and FCPL collection in various formats. Do not miss out on this opportunity to share your love of books with others throughout the county.
To join the discussion: Call 703-324-1800 or the toll-free number, 1-877-862-8112; At the prompt, enter the code 389887.
Upcoming Meetings:
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) - Free Income Tax Preparation Services
Did you know that many Americans can keep more of their money at tax time by getting free tax preparation from IRS-certified volunteer preparers? The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide programs provide free preparation – without upcharges or hidden fees – and serve taxpayers using rigorous IRS preparation standards and certified tax preparers.
IRS Certified VITA and AARP Foundation Tax-Aide preparers offer free tax help to people who need assistance, including:
People who generally make $60,000 or less
Persons with disabilities
Limited English-speaking taxpayers
People 60 years old or older
Find a VITA or AARP Tax Aide site in your area ››
Metro Seeking Public Comment Regarding FY25 Budget
Metro needs your input as it faces an unprecedented $750 million shortfall while shaping an FY25 budget.
All comments should be submitted no later than Tuesday, March 5, at 5 p.m.
https://wmata.questionpro.com/FY25Budget
Metro will also host public hearings later this month. More information is available on their website.
Advancing Marriage Equality: A Toolkit by DREDF
On this past Valentine's Day, the Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund published on their website, the "Advancing Marriage Equality Toolkit" for persons with disabilities. Learn more about the marriage penalties faced by people with disabilities and their partners, what’s at stake + ways you can take action to #EndTheLoveTax!
Place Your Order for Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests
Get a COVID-19 test for symptoms or exposure. ECNV serves as a supplier for individuals and organizations. For inquiries, please reach out to us at info@ecnv.org or you can get Free at-home tests from USPS.
MedStar Health Urinary Research Study
MedStar Health is looking for participants for a urinary symptoms study (#NCT05230511). Read more on their website
Events for Learning, New Opportunities and Advocacy
March 2024
Disability Day of Mourning 2024, (virtual-hosted by ECNV), 3/1/24, 2:30-3:00pm
Transitioning to Adulthood: Options and Resources from Panel Experts, (virtual), 3/6/24, 7:00pm.
Navigating Medicaid and Medicare for Dual Special Needs Populations, (virtual), 3/6/24, 11:00am.
Microsoft Ability Summit, (virtual), 3/7/24.
ECHO Webinar Series: Best Practices Accessible Communication, (virtual), 3/20/24, 12:15pm - 1:45pm.
Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference, (in-person), 3/20/24 - 3/21/24, Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel, Washington, DC.
Transition Parent Support Group, (in-person), 3/23/24, 10:00am - 12:00pm, The Arc of Northern Virginia.
