Values

The values highlighted in the History and Visioning Project reflect the principles that have guided disability advocacy and systems change in Washington State over time. These values—shaped by the lived experiences of people with developmental disabilities, families, and advocates—have influenced how policies are written, how services are designed, and how communities work toward inclusion and equity. Together, they help explain not just what changed, but why it mattered, and how shared values continue to guide the Council’s work today.

Before the DDC

People

Issues

1970's

1980's

1945-2025: Self-Advocate Mike Raymond's Story

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.

1970's

Historic Events

Policy

Values

1970 - The DD Act

Through the DD Act, the federal government established DD Councils and a national network dedicated to strengthening disability rights, promoting community living, and ensuring that people with developmental disabilities guide decisions that affect their lives.

1980's

Issues

Policy

Values

1985 Victims of Change

A 1985 investigative series examines the human and system impacts of rapid deinstitutionalization when community supports and oversight were insufficient.

1980's

Policy

Issues

Values

1988 Values, Policies, and Practices: Closing the Gaps in Community Integration

A 1988 paper explores the progress and remaining challenges of community integration for people with developmental disabilities, emphasizing values-based policy and meaningful inclusion.

1970's

1980's

1990's

2000's

2010's

1970-2000 National DD Council History

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.

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.