'Rally in the Valley' brings crowd together in Rockland for disability rights
The second “Rally in the Valley” was held at Clover Stadium in Pomona on Friday.
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The second “Rally in the Valley” was held at Clover Stadium in Pomona on Friday.
The two-hour event was spearheaded by Jawonio, a Rockland-based organization that supports people with mental and developmental disabilities.
"Here we are being that squeaky wheel," said Randi Rios-Castro, the CEO of Jawonio. "We want to reinforce to all of our officials that protecting funding for services is essential, that Medicaid is essential, and that paying staff a living wage is essential."
The event’s message was to protect Medicaid from potential federal budget cuts and asking New York state to invest more than before.
It once again brought together advocates and agencies from all over the state as well as lawmakers.
“Without Medicaid we don't get paid,” said Nichelle Brown, who works for Jawonio. “There’s no reason why anybody who provides service and support for the people that we serve should be competing with McDonald's."
“Invest in people with disabilities. Invest in Medicare,” said Penny Pagliaro, a mom with two children who have disabilities. She is also a provider. “These are the people that need support and services the most."
They were part of the crowd of several hundred who hope their voices reach lawmakers at our state and national capitols.
“If we do not find savings throughout the entire entirety of the federal government. These programs, these vital programs, these vital programs will be in jeopardy,” said Rep. Mike Lawler about federal spending.
Lawler got mixed reactions from the crowd during his speech, including boos, but he ultimately vowed to protect Medicaid.
