Disability Rights are Human Rights!

For more than 65 years, The Arc Oregon has been at the forefront of the fight for rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Fighting for the Rights of People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

At a time when institutionalization was the common medical recommendation for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, The Arc Oregon was founded by parents who wanted a better life for their children with I/DD. 

They led the fight for community inclusion, education, and civil rights, eventually leading to the closing of Oregon’s institutions and developing the current brokerage system of supports and services.

More than 65 years later we still have work to do. Through our collaborative work with our local chapters, community partners, and grassroots advocates like you, we know we can succeed.

Grassroots Advocacy

The strength of our movement comes from building a larger, stronger community of people with disabilities, parents, siblings, and allies to advocate for disability rights.
Advocacy Tools

Public Policy

The Arc has a long history of active engagement with government agencies and legislators to ensure ongoing forward momentum in advancing the rights of people with I/DD.
Policy Topics
Position Statements
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