Is Forced Institutionalization Coming Back? Conversation with Kathy Davis and John Dickerson

Today we welcome John Dickerson and Kathy Davis for a conversation about the history, current state, and future of disability rights and services in Indiana. John shares his long tenure in advocacy starting in 1973 with the Arc of Indiana, recounting the evolution from institutionalization to more inclusive community-based services. Kathy, the Lieutenant Governor of Indiana from 2003-2005, reflects on her earlier pivotal role as Secretary of the FSSA during a crisis at Newcastle State Developmental Center and the subsequent reforms. We talk about the importance of high expectations, advocacy, and systemic changes that have led to more inclusive and supportive environments for individuals with disabilities. Recent threats from the Indiana government and federal government have suggested that disability rights could be rolled back, even to a return to forced institutionalization of decades past. As much as it is hard to believe that we may have to fight this fight again, we need to be clear-eyed and prepared for what may be coming in the near future.John and Kathy are here to stress the significance of building a better future through community involvement, policy innovation, and continuous advocacy.Further links and research related to this episode:John DickersonKathy DavisUnderstanding Trump’s Executive Order on Homelessness: A Return to Forced Institutionalization (Marcy Thompson, National Alliance to End Homelessness)The Final Years of Central State Hospital (Ellen Dwyer)New Castle State Developmental Center Investigation WISH-TV8, 1997 (YouTube; follow links in video for full series)Contact Tabitha:[email protected]