February 7, 2014

Crowds pack Rep. Case, The Arc’s Family Hearing Day

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HARTFORD – A grassroots movement bringing attention to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their uphill battle in the state of Connecticut is being spearheaded by organizations, families and friends, and state lawmakers who found a special place in their hearts for these citizens.

Concerned residents packed hearing rooms today at the Legislative Office Building – part of the State Capitol complex – to address these issues, which are becoming part of the state’s rapidly evolving landscape. State Rep. Jay Case (R-63), a longtime advocate for I/DD individuals, organized the first-ever Family Hearing Day, along with The Arc of Connecticut, State Rep. John Hampton (D-16) and State Sen. Beth Bye (D-5), in the newly-formed I/DD Caucus.

“Today’s outpouring of support for the I/DD community was overwhelming and humbling. As a person with a relative with an intellectual and developmental disability, I have seen first-hand where our society has failed them, and where our state falls short in supporting their everyday life. I want to thank everyone who came out today to testify. Know that this bipartisan effort is gaining steam and, from both sides of the aisle, we’re working to make our state better,” Rep. Case said.

“Families got to these legislators and let them learn why this meeting was necessary,” Executive Director of The Arc Connecticut Leslie M. Simoes said. “The families brought them to the table to better understand these issues. And it’s working.”

Over the past months, Reps. Case and Hampton and Sen. Bye have been working together with families impacted by I/DD and organized the I/DD Caucus, which will meet on a regular basis to address state government’s role in helping Connecticut’s I/DD community. Today’s initial meeting saw hundreds of people crowd into two rooms, plus overflow areas, filled with both horror stories and disheartened parents, but also positive, forward movement.

“We heard all sorts of stories today that really gave us a jumping-off point – a foundation to build on,” Rep. Case said. “There are a number of challenges and hurdles we have to overcome. But I’m positive and I know we can give these families some peace of mind.”