Voices of Disability Advocacy: Breaking Barriers in Charlotte

Voices of Disability Advocacy – Breaking Barriers in Charlotte

Come be part of an important conversation led by disabled advocates and leaders right here in Charlotte. This panel is all about sharing real-life experiences, talking about the challenges we face, and finding ways to work together for better accessibility in our community. Everyone is welcome—whether you’re disabled, an ally, a volunteer, or just someone who cares about making Charlotte a place where everyone can thrive.

Why Attend?
This panel is more than a conversation; it’s a call to action. You’ll hear firsthand from disabled advocates who are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and creating change in their communities. Whether you’re looking to learn, connect, or contribute, this event offers a space to gain insights, share ideas, and collaborate on solutions that benefit all disability communities.

Meet Our Panelists and Moderator

Moderator: Becky Davidson
As Board Chair for the Metrolina Association for the Blind (MAB), Becky brings a wealth of experience in advocacy and leadership. Her commitment to accessibility and inclusion sets the stage for a meaningful dialogue.

Panelists:

Julie Melton
A music therapist with arthrogryposis, Julie has spent her life defying expectations. Whether ambulating with or without a wheelchair, she has consistently overcome societal limits placed on her abilities. Julie’s story is a testament to the power of self-determination.

Chablis Dendridge
A real estate professional and public safety consultant, Chablis specializes in finding housing support for individuals transitioning from incarceration. His work focuses on prevention, intervention, and restorative reentry, highlighting the intersection of disability, housing, and justice—especially as a wheelchair user himself.

Shemika Robinson
After becoming blind later in life, Shemika transitioned to an independent life with blindness and now serves as Vice President of the Mecklenburg Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). Her journey underscores the importance of adaptability, advocacy, and community support.

Xavier Jackson
A creative generalist in fine art and graphic design, Xavier is a speaker, YouTuber, and advocate for mental health and autism awareness. His work spans book and author campaign design, philanthropy for IDD citizens, and creating engaging video content. Xavier’s multifaceted career reflects the power of creativity in advocacy.

What You’ll Learn

• Effective Advocacy Strategies: Discover practical approaches to advocating for accessibility in your community.
• Breaking Down Barriers: Explore the challenges that prevent collaboration across disability communities—and how to overcome them.
• Interconnected Issues: Learn how issues in one disability community can impact others, and why solidarity matters.
• Resources and Support: Identify the tools and resources needed to advocate more effectively.
• Vision for Change: Share your ideas for the most impactful accessibility improvements in Charlotte over the next year.

Who Should Join?
This event is for everyone—disabled individuals, allies, volunteers, professionals, and community members who believe in the power of collaboration. Whether you’re here to listen, learn, or contribute, your presence will help shape a more inclusive Charlotte.

Let’s Build a More Accessible Future—Together
Join us for an evening of insight, inspiration, and action. Together, we can break down barriers and create a community where everyone belongs.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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