HARRISBURG, PA – In celebration of Disability Pride Month, the Pennsylvania Human Rights Commission (PHRC) will host its second annual Disability Conference, “Don’t Count Me Out! Comprehensive Approaches to Disability Inclusion and Conflict Resolution.” This one-day hybrid conference will focus on working with people with disabilities to navigate conflict. Held at the Harrisburg Hilton and online, the conference will offer engaging sessions on a variety of topics about how people with disabilities navigate various conflict situations, including bullying, interactions with the criminal justice system, armed conflict, and mediation. The conference aims to inform Pennsylvanians of their rights, explore new ideas, and connect individuals with resources to help them navigate conflict situations successfully.
“PHRC is excited to host our Disability Conference again this July,” said PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. “Our planning committee has been working hard to put together a program that will leave attendees inspired, motivated, and ready to take another stand against injustice.”
The conference will begin with a plenary session on disability rights under the Pennsylvania Human Rights Act. Then there will be parallel sessions, one on bullying and harassment of youth with disabilities and another on the impact of war on people with disabilities. This will be followed by lunch and a keynote address by American author and disability rights activist Imani Barbarin. In the afternoon, there will be parallel sessions, one on the criminal justice system and people with disabilities and another on mediation as a means to resolve disputes regarding requests for disability accommodations.
“This hybrid event will feature panelists from around the world,” said attorney Darlene Hemelka, PHRC hearing examiner and disability conference committee member. “The goal of the conference is to help people with disabilities navigate and succeed in situations, including conflict.”
In addition to the panels, there will also be vendor tables where attendees can learn about other resources available. Vendors interested in setting up a table should contact Brittany Mellinger at . [email protected]Space is limited so request a table early.
The PHRC enforces state laws prohibiting unlawful discrimination. If you believe you have been subjected to unlawful discrimination, you may file a complaint by calling (717) 787-4410. Information and resources are also available at www.PHRC.pa.gov.