Independent Living Philosophy
Independent living is what you decide it is.
A simple idea: people with disabilities should have the same rights, choices, and opportunities as everyone else — and should direct their own lives.
The movement
The Independent Living Movement was built by people with disabilities who refused to let others decide what their lives should look like. It moved support out of institutions and into the community — on each person’s own terms.
Key principles
Self-direction
You are the expert on your own life. You set the goals.
Empowerment
Support should expand your choices, not replace them.
Independence & interdependence
Freedom to choose the support you need — not doing everything alone.
Consumer control
The people who use services help run and shape them.
Consumer control
“Consumer control” means people with disabilities lead — on this Council, in our programs, and in the State Plan. Your voice isn’t an afterthought; it’s the design.
Put the philosophy into practice
Tell us what you need, or get involved with the Council.
Take the Community Needs Survey Get Involved