What if you were confined to a state-run hospital against your will? A mere 25 years ago, this was the case for many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

In 1999, two women (Lois Curtis and Elaine Wilson) found themselves in this situation.

As children, Lois and Elaine had both been placed in a state-run psychiatric institution—Lois at age 11, and Elaine at age 15. As adults, they wanted to move back into their own communities. But the state wouldn't let them.

Over the years, Elaine Wilson found herself living in 36 different institutions. As she later said, "When I was in an institution, I didn't like myself. I was trapped. I thought, ‘Oh God, oh God, when am I ever going to leave here?’"

Elaine and Lois out to an attorney named Sue Jamieson at Atlanta Legal. Sue helped them sue the state, and eventually the case went all the way to the Supreme Court.
 
On June 22, 1999, the Supreme Court ruled that segregation and institutionalization of people who experience disabilities is unlawful discrimination.

After the decision, both Lois and Elaine were able to live in the community. Lois Curtis became an artist and ran her own business. In 2011, she presented one of her paintings to President Obama in the Oval Office.
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Both Lois and Elaine have passed away, but their legacy and courage will live on forever.
 
You can learn more about them, and the Olmstead case, here: https://www.aapd.com/statement-olmstead-25/.

Today is a special day for everyone who experiences or cares about people who experience intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD).
 
It’s the 25th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in a case called Olmstead v. L.C.

On June 22, 1999, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the unjustified segregation of people with disabilities is a form of unlawful discrimination under the ADA. This landmark decision requires states to provide services in the most integrated settings, promoting community participation for all.

UCP Oregon also celebrates our involvement in the historic Lane v. Brown case, filed in 2012. The lawsuit challenged Oregon's use of segregated, sheltered workshops that paid sub-minimum wages to people who experience I/DD.
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The Lane v. Brown case was settled in 2015, and led to significant changes, including the closure of all sheltered workshops in Oregon by 2020 and the provision of competitive, integrated employment opportunities for thousands of individuals.

Cheers to 25 years of progress!

Today (June 19th) is Juneteenth!
 
This day marks the emancipation of the last enslaved Black Americans in Texas. Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward equality.
 
Juneteenth is not just a time to reflect on the past, but a moment to honor the culture, achievements, and contributions of the Black community.

Dear UCP Oregon Community,

Do you know someone who might be a great fit for UCP's Board of Directors? If so, we're excited to hear from you!

But, first, a bit more information.

UCP's Board of Directors is made up of a dedicated group of individuals. ​Some board members use UCP's services or are parents of children who use UCP's services. Many board members are leaders in the business and non-profit community.

Each member has been selected because they share a passion for our mission and values. They also have the skills, time and integrity necessary to support our work, and to serve as a representative for the organization in the broader community. ​

Happy Pride Month from UCP Oregon!
 
As we step into June, we're filled with excitement and pride to join the global celebration of LGBTQIA+ Pride. At UCP Oregon, we champion diversity, inclusion, and the power of love in all its beautiful forms.
 
This Pride Month, we honor the courage, strength, and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community, especially those with disabilities. Your stories inspire us, your voices empower us, and your presence enriches our community.
 
Join us in celebrating love, acceptance, and equality. Let's continue to build a world where everyone feels seen, valued, and loved for who they are.
 
Happy Pride!