AND Helps Shape National Emergency Management Toolkit

The Advocacy Network on Disabilities (AND) submitted comments to the National Council on Disability (NCD) to help shape a new emergency management toolkit for state, local, tribal, and territorial communities.

The toolkit is meant to help communities better prepare for and respond to emergencies in ways that include people with disabilities. Too often, emergency plans do not fully meet their needs before, during, or after a disaster.

Drawing from its work in Miami-Dade County, AND highlighted several key needs. These include clear and accessible emergency communication, inclusive evacuation and shelter plans, and stronger involvement of people with disabilities in local planning and decision-making.

AND also stressed that people with disabilities must help shape the policies that affect their lives. Their voices and lived experiences should be part of both planning and response efforts.

The organization also called for stronger partnerships among government agencies, community organizations, and disability advocates. Working together is essential to building emergency systems that serve everyone.

By joining this national effort, AND continues its mission to build inclusive, equitable, and resilient communities. The organization looks forward to supporting the next phase of the toolkit and helping advance disability-inclusive emergency management at the local level.

Community members, organizations, and partners are invited to share their experiences, challenges, and ideas. To contribute, contact info@advocacynetwork.org.