Today, as most weekdays in DC, I walked to the bus stop, rode to Union Station, got off and walked to the CNN building where the offices of the National Disabilities Rights Network are. I entered the building, showed my ID to the security guard and rode the elevator up to the 7th floor. This will be the last time that I do so for this stay in DC. I am filled with bittersweet feelings of excitement to get home to Arizona to be with friends and family, and sadness to say goodbye to the people of Washington, DC that I have come to love.
Washington, DC is a place, like so many, full of people who spend their time working for the government, businesses, research institutions, universities, restaurants, public transportation, and so much more. It's no longer this mysterious place where people live to make decisions that affect ordinary lives, who don't care about the common woman and man. While decisions made here do affect so many of us, I have a deep respect for those who walk to work daily to advocate on behalf of common people. NDRN is one such place. I want to express my appreciation to NDRN for the opportunity to intern this semester with them. I have learned so much about our government, public policy, national advocacy, leadership, and commitment. NDRN is committed to their membership and puts their whole heart into making sure that nothing threatens the ability of state Protection and Advocacy Centers to work on behalf of those with disabilities across our nation. This sounds simple but it is anything but that. I marvel at the willingness to plug away day after day speaking to politicians, attorneys, coalitions of non-profit disability and civil rights organizations, while monitoring legislation, supporting their membership, and educating the public at large on the issues that individuals with disabilities face. Thank you NDRN for the work you do every day, and for allowing me to join your world for a season. I will stay in touch!
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Daphne ThompsonPursuing a Bachelor Degree in Public Services and Policy, Daphne is starting her senior year this fall. Archives
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