RespectAbility is an American nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to empowerment and self-advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Started by one-time political consultant Jennifer Laszlo Mizrahi in 2013, the organization focuses primarily on promoting employment and independent living for individuals with both physical and intellectual/developmental disabilities but also participates heavily in political issues and political discourse surrounding this population. Originally launched in Bethesda, Maryland, RespectAbility is currently headquartered in Rockville, Maryland.
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Description
The organization was founded by Jennifer Laszlo Mizrahi in 2013. It was initially an offshoot of the Autism Society of America, and became an independent entity in late 2013. The organization was originally based in Bethesda, Maryland. The organization works to reduce stigmas, overhaul/reevaluate failed government policies, and surmount the obstacles surrounding individuals with disabilities.
Disability fellowships
The organization offers Fellowship opportunities for individuals with disabilities and those without disabilities interested in contributing to the cause. The Fellowship program enables individuals both with and without disabilities to take a proactive role and gain valuable experience in the policy development, fundraising, publicity, and general political discourse surrounding individuals with disabilities and their integration into the community.
Controversy
The organization has come under fire due to its CEO Jennifer Laszlo Mizrahi's comments about race and the 2016 election. Multiple disability rights bloggers objected to Mizrahi's comments. After Mizrahi's September 21, 2016 comments on her personal Facebook page, the organization stated Mizrahi did not speak for the organization. However, the following day, Mizrahi spoke on behalf of RespectAbility USA when she was quoted on CNN about white disabled voters. In response, RespectAbility issued an apology quoting Mizrahi stating, "I made mistakes. I am very sorry." Later the organization issued a more detailed apology.