HFC instructor organizes Michigan Disability Empowerment Conference

Release Date
Event Date
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Location
U-M Fairlane Center South in Dearborn
Colorful, abstract illustration of Michigan, disability icons, and shapes.

Register by October 10 if you wish to attend

HFC humanities instructor and disability community advocate Dr. Adam Hazlett has organized a Michigan Disability Empowerment Conference (MDEC), which will be hosted by Dream Dearborn and the Humanities 101 Foundation. The event will take place Friday, October 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the University of Michigan Fairlane Center South, 19000 Hubbard Drive in Dearborn.

The MEDC is a statewide gathering that will bring together leaders from the disability community, families, advocates, educators, policymakers, innovators, allies, and people with lived experience to address the future of disability leadership.

“Through keynotes, workshops, and storytelling, we’re building the next generation of empowered voices by connecting communities, sparking policy change, and creating a future in which disabled people don’t just have a seat at the table – they help design it! This isn’t just a conference. It is a movement rooted in Michigan with impact that will reach far beyond,” said Hazlett.

Economics, civic engagement, empowerment, and meeting needs

The MEDC’s key goals include:

  • Humanizing and centering the lived experiences of disabled and neurodivergent Michiganders
  • Exploring affordable housing, accessibility innovations, and inclusive economic practices
  • Sharing replicable micro-accommodations and strategies for inclusive education, employment, and living
  • Creating a vibrant resource exchange between individuals, institutions, and grassroots organizations.

Topics that will be discussed at the MEDC include:

  • Eliminating sub-minimum wages and advancing employment equity
  • Affordable, integrated housing solutions
  • Accessible tourism and recreation
  • Civic engagement for disabled voters and residents
  • Academic and grassroots approaches to micro-accommodations
  • Cultural humility in disability services
  • Innovation through intersectional disability justice (race, gender, class, language access)
  • Neurodivergent approaches to leadership, wellness, and community care

Registration

Registration is required for this conference; you may register at the link above. The cost of attending the MEDC is $5. Parking is free. Those age 14 and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. We recommend that attendees arrive early to check in. Doors open at 8:30 a.m.

For questions or more information about the MEDC, contact info@humanities101.org.