Philosophy and History

The organization now known as Disability Rights & Resources actually opened its doors on January 1, 1980 as Metrolina Independent Living Center (MILC). It was one of the first Centers for Independent Living in America. The CIL movement, which began in Berkley California in the '70's, had finally reached Washington, DC. Monies were set aside for a grass-roots, consumer-controlled, community-based organization that would perform individual and systemic advocacy for people - regardless of the disability, age, race, or need.

Over the past 20 years, the agency's location has moved five times, and there have been six Executive Directors. But the commitment to guarding the civil rights of people with disabilities has never wavered.

The IL philosophy is based on the fundamental understanding that all people should have access to the same privileges, options, and control over choices in their own lives whether or not they have a disability. We believe there is dignity in risk - living as we choose and making informed choices even if others do not agree with those choices.

There is a component of the IL philosophy that makes many people uncomfortable. It is the concept of "lowered to equality". This means that a person can either be "special" or be "equal" but never both. In fact we view the word "special" as the complete opposite of "equal".

We encourage you to contact anyone on staff at Disability Rights & Resources to discuss the Independent Living philosophy if you have questions or comments.