ADVOCACY IN DISABILITY POLICY - PARENTS AND CONSUMERS AS ADVOCATES

Advocacy for change, which stems from commitment and vision, should be a collaborative process among parents and consumers in partnership wi th professionals. Using surveys, interactive focus groups, and telepho ne interviews, we explored the concept: and activities of advocacy exp erienced by parents and individuals with disabilities. Participants we re identified through an advocacy and leadership training program, Par tners in Policymaking. Advocacy activities and supports and barriers t o successful advocacy both for parents and consumers were identified. Suggestions for further research and action were proposed.