Mike Raymond’s journey from life inside Rainier School to becoming one of Washington’s most influential self-advocates helped shape the state’s disability rights movement and continues to guide efforts toward community-based supports today.

A timeline from ITACC traces how the DD Act evolved from 1970 to 2000 into a comprehensive civil rights and community-living framework centered on inclusion, self-determination, and strong advocacy roles for DD Councils.

Robert Wardell recounts his experience living in two of Washington State's residential habilitation centers (also known as RHC's or institutions) and his journey to living in the community. He also shares some tips for advocacy and his hope for future IDD advocates.

Diana reflects on decades of work in Washington’s disability community, sharing how listening to self-advocates and learning from people who experienced institutions helped drive progress toward true community inclusion.

Shawn Latham shares his perspective on disability advocacy and systems change. He talks about his own lived experience, his involvement with disability organizations, and what it has meant to be part of advocacy work over time.

Ivanova Smith shares lived experience growing up in institutional and segregated systems, a journey through special education in Washington, and work advancing disability rights.