As we tumble in to 2023, like Alice as she fell through the looking glass, it's becoming quickly apparent that this is most definitely the year of recovery for many. Over the past few years, we have collectively experienced a deeply traumatic event - a series of events, really. And now is the time we come together to address our pain and suffering.

This year, the focus of our conversations and advocacy will center on The Right to Effective Communication. You may be wondering why this is important to talk about NOW. Well, the reality is that this has always been something people have talked about, but unfortunately the people who really needed to hear the message weren't listening.

My hope is that this year we can create a space in which people actually begin to listen to what is being said, so we can shift the conversation from "is this really a problem?" to "now that we all have taken time to listen to those who have been marginalized and understand the scope and the depth of the problem - what are we going to do about it?"

This weekend, a conversation was started following a very critical event this past Friday January 13th, 2023. The conversation ended with a strong desire to bring together a group of people into a task force of sorts to take this issue head-on. To turn and face the dragon. To not fall into the trap of again witnessing abuse and turning a blind eye.

So, if you're ready to join the conversation and find the "one thing" you can do within your sphere of influence to shift the narrative, please send me an email to be added to the invite list. We are looking for people to join the task force who have lived experience with disabilities that impact a person's ability to communicate effectively.

Everyone on the task force will get access to all recordings and notes from the conversations that have happened thus far. We've been following the action circle model to facilitate open and inclusive communication. We look forward to more people joining our crew to create good trouble in the service of creating a more peaceful world for all.

Much love always, Abigail "Abby" Twyman

Featured Image: socialtrendspr0 from Pixabay