Interviews

The History and Visioning Project interviews center the voices of people who have helped shape disability advocacy and systems change in Washington State. Through personal stories, reflections, and firsthand experiences, these interviews capture how individuals—including self-advocates, family members, and longtime collaborators—have influenced policy, programs, and community life. Together, these conversations highlight the people behind the progress and offer insight into where we’ve been, what we’ve learned, and how those lessons can inform the future.

People

1970's

1980's

1990's

2000's

Video Interview - Robert Wardell

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.

Issues

Policy

People

Before the DDC

1980's

Video Interview Diana Stadden

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.

2000's

2010's

2020's

Policy

People

Video Interview - Shawn Latham

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.

Interviews

2000's

2010's

2020's

People

Video Interview - Ivanova Smith

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