In this episode, host Justice Shorter welcomes Jalyn Radziminski (Founder of Count US IN) and Henry Claypool.

The podcast discusses the potential impacts of proposed cuts to Medicare and Medicaid services on people with disabilities in the United States. Medicaid cuts of $880 billion could significantly impact eligibility, services, and access to community-based living for people with disabilities. This threatens hard-won gains in deinstitutionalization and community integration. Closure of Social Security Administration offices and staffing cuts will exacerbate delays and denials of disability benefits, especially for those in rural areas who rely on in-person access. Increased government surveillance and scrutiny of disability program data raises concerns about privacy, discrimination, and distrust in accessing essential healthcare services. The disability community has a long history of advocacy and legal battles to secure rights and access, from the Rehabilitation Act to the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Olmstead decision. This legacy must guide future efforts to protect Medicaid and Medicare. Disability advocates and organizers need increased funding and support to effectively push back against harmful policy changes and center the perspectives of marginalized communities within the disability movement.

Our podcast theme music is by Andre Louis and Precious Perez. Thank you to Recording Artists And Music Professionals With Disabilities (RAMPD) for connecting these talented disabled musicians with the Disability & Philanthropy Forum.