The legal system is intricate, and insufficient access can lead to numerous injustices. Deaf individuals within the criminal justice system often face the denial of crucial accommodations throughout the legal process. Similarly, autistic individuals lack essential support during law enforcement interactions and court. The overall marginalization of people with disabilities in the criminal justice system is worsened by a shortage of qualified advocates.
Join the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity and the CT State Independent Living Council on Friday, January 26, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in Room 2C of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford for an in-person screening of the documentary “Being Michelle“. Immediately following the film will be a panel discussion moderated by Steven Hernández, Esq., Executive Director, CWCSEO and Molly Cole, Executive Director, SILC.
Panel Includes: Colleen Gallagher, CT Department of Corrections, Trina Sexton, York Correctional Institution, Cheryl Sharp, Esq., Commission on Human Rights & Opportunities, Dr. Lisa Kuntz, University of Saint Joseph, Susan Shatney, CT Department of Aging and Disability Services, Dr. Gabriel Lomas, Gallaudet University, Luisa Soboleski, CT Association of the Deaf.
Mae Thornton Mehra, “Being Michelle” Producer & Executive Director, Thriving Roots Initiative
“Being Michelle” follows the astonishing journey of a deaf and disabled woman who survived incarceration and abuse under unimaginable circumstances by a system that refused to accommodate her needs as a deaf person with autism.
The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend. For information and details contact Denise Drummond, CWCSEO Legislative Policy Analyst: denise.drummond@cga.ct.gov.