Tools for Disability Self-Advocacy in Minnesota: Empowering Choice, Voice, and Independence 

As a high schooler, Ryan was an active and athletic teenager. But when a car crash left Ryan with a traumatic brain injury, his world was turned upside down. Ryan required services to support his recovery and path to independence, and he needed to learn new ways to advocate for himself.  

As Ryan recovered, he had to work at his own pace in school. Despite his Individualized Education Program (IEP) outlining Ryan’s need for extra test time, his school refused to grant him the accommodation, and Ryan dropped a class to avoid a poor grade.  

This experience led Ryan to Partners in Policymaking, one of the many self-advocacy programs and tools available to Minnesotans.  

Ryan’s story is just one example of how Minnesotans with disabilities are using self-advocacy to take charge of their lives. Whether you’re new to self-advocacy or looking to strengthen your skills, Minnesota has tools and support systems designed to help you succeed. 

What Is Disability Self-Advocacy?

Disability self-advocacy means that individuals with disabilities actively speak up for their rights, make informed choices about their lives, and participate in shaping the policies and services that impact them. Disability self-advocacy includes: 

• Making informed decisions about your life and services 

• Expressing your goals and preferences clearly 

• Knowing your rights and how to protect them 

• Participating in community and policy conversations, and 

• Leading your own support plan 

Self-advocacy can look different for everyone. For Ryan, it meant asking for school accommodations. For others, it might mean applying for or maintaining benefits or choosing a personal care assistant who has common values. The important thing is: you are in charge of your life. 

Key Self-Advocacy Tools in Minnesota

You may be advocating for yourself, but you don’t have to figure it out all on your own. There are several helpful self-advocacy resources and organizations available across Minnesota. 

Partners in Policymaking

Partners in Policymaking is a nationally recognized leadership training program for individuals with disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities. They offer training sessions, public policy updates, and self-advocacy resources, while also equipping participants with the tools and skills needed to effectively engage with their elected officials. 

Minnesota Disability Law Center (MDLC)

MDLC provides free legal services to people with disabilities on issues like education, housing, voting rights, abuse/neglect, and access to services. You can request legal help or learn how to assert your rights through guides and fact sheets. 

Self Advocates Minnesota (SAM)

SAM is a statewide network of self-advocacy groups run by and for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. SAM offers a platform for peer mentoring, public speaking, and collective advocacy. Local SAM groups are hosted throughout Minnesota and are open to new members. 

Minnesota Association of Centers for Independent Living (MACIL)

MACIL provides advocacy training, peer support, and transition services, while also assisting individuals in navigating community living. These centers empower people with the skills and confidence needed to live independently. 

Disability Hub MN 

Disability Hub MN is a free, statewide resource and referral center for people with disabilities. Through its My Vault feature, users can organize life goals and service plans, receive support for decision-making, explore service options, and access tailored resources for young adults, caregivers, and seniors. 

Supported Decision-Making (SDM)

SDM is an alternative to guardianship that helps people with disabilities make decisions with support rather than having decisions made for them. Whether it’s a decision about health care, employment, relationships, or finances, SDM can help everyone make the best decision for themselves. 

Self-Directed Homecare Services

Accra uses person-centered approaches to support clients in leading conversations about their goals, preferences, and needs. You have the right to choose your own support staff, set your own schedule, and decide how your care is delivered. 

Advocacy Is a Journey—And You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Disability self-advocacy isn’t about being perfect. It’s about progress, practice, and being heard. Whether you're choosing a support worker, planning for the future, or simply figuring out your next step, you deserve tools that help you live independently at home. 

And like Ryan, you don’t have to do it alone.