July RSJ Spotlight

Racial & Social Justice Spotlight Series

Each month, our Equity Coordinator, Lara, sits down with an organization or individual in our community to spotlight the work they do to create real and lasting change for a more equitable Spokane.

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July Spotlight

Inland Northwest Disability Experience (INDEx)

I was so grateful for the opportunity to learn about and work with Inland Northwest Disability Experience (INDEx) recently for our July Pathways Forward community conversation where we discussed Disability Pride. The conversation not only promoted disability pride but also reinforced the importance of working collectively to create a more inclusive and accessible society. 

It was especially important to me, personally, to provide this platform for folks with disabilities to come together, share their stories, and advocate for greater inclusivity and understanding, fully acknowledging this is just one of many more conversations that need to center our disabled community and help foster continued progress in the journey towards disability equality and empowerment. I wanted to further amplify this organization’s work in appreciation of this new community partnership in this month’s spotlight.

INDEx is a pioneering organization that champions the rights, visibility, and empowerment of individuals with disabilities throughout the Inland Northwest region. Through innovative programs, engaging events, and strategic partnerships, INDEx creates an inclusive platform that fosters connections, education, and advocacy, enriching the lives of the disabled community and advancing the cause of disability equality.

INDEx is driven by a mission to celebrate and amplify the experiences of individuals with disabilities. The organization envisions a society in which all people are valued, supported, and provided equal opportunities, regardless of their abilities. They strive to dismantle barriers and stigmas while promoting a culture of acceptance, understanding, and appreciation for diversity.

Like YWCA Spokane, INDEx recognizes the power of storytelling and shared experiences. By providing a platform for individuals with disabilities to express themselves, people are empowered to break stereotypes and advocate for positive change. They are working towards a transformative cultural shift that views disability not as a limitation, but as an essential aspect of human diversity to be celebrated and embraced.

The heart of INDEx lies in its commitment to creating a united and supportive community. Connections are created through events, workshops, and online platforms, fostering relationships and a sense of belonging.

They take an active role in educating the public about the challenges, triumphs, and perspectives of the disabled community. Through workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns, the organization promotes greater understanding and empathy. They also engage in advocacy efforts to raise awareness influence policy changes that enhance accessibility, inclusivity, and equal rights for individuals with disabilities.

INDEx serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the disabled community. Through its dedication to promote understanding, advocate for change, and foster connections, they demonstrate that disabilities are not limitations but powerful aspects of human diversity. By fostering inclusivity and amplifying voices, INDEx paves the way for a more compassionate and accessible future for all individuals.

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER SPOTLIGHTS

• JANUARY | 2023 Washington Legislative Session
• FEBRUARY | If You Could Save Just One
• MARCH | Latrice Williams
• APRIL | Tracy Poindexter-Canton
• May | Naghmana Sherazi
• JUNE | Mujeres in Action

Find past RSJ Spotlights here.

If you or someone you know should have their advocacy work highlighted through our RSJ Spotlight series, please email our equity coordinator, larae@ywcaspokane.org.