About the Guest(s):

Jeiri Flores is a Puerto Rican disability rights activist based in Rochester, New York. After earning her bachelor's degree in Sociology and African American Studies from SUNY Brockport in 2014, she pursued a master's in Human Development at the University of Rochester. As a passionate advocate for disability rights, Jeiri shares her insights on inclusion, disability, and intersectionality at colleges and conferences, aiming to enlighten and inspire change. Her mission is to empower disabled youth to redefine societal narratives around disability.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Think Inclusive listeners are introduced to the compelling story and advocacy journey of Jeiri Flores, a dynamic disability rights activist. Jeiri opens up about the relentless challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly highlighting the dehumanization and isolation embedded within societal and systemic structures. Through engaging storytelling, she discusses the critical role of love and belonging in fostering truly inclusive communities and delves into how these spaces can transform by acknowledging the humanity of every individual.

Throughout the conversation, Jeiri reflects on her advocacy's roots, nurtured from a young age while translating for her family, and how her practices have evolved over time. Key themes such as navigating healthcare systems, societal expectations, and the perpetual need for systemic change are explored. Jeiri also emphasizes the power of sharing personal narratives, not only as a form of advocacy but as a way to bridge connections between diverse experiences. As she navigates topics like love, belonging, and her intersectional identity, Jeiri provides a rich tapestry of insights that resonate deeply with educators, advocates, and anyone passionate about disability rights and inclusion.

Complete show notes + transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-power-of-storytelling-in-disability-rights-with-jeiri-flores/

Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity and vulnerability are essential in effective advocacy, as they help build deeper connections and understanding.
• Navigating healthcare and societal systems poses significant challenges for disabled individuals, often leading to stress and self-segregation.
• Inclusion spaces thrive on recognizing every individual's humanity and embracing differences, with love serving as a guiding principle.
• Storytelling in advocacy can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and encouraging systemic change.
• The importance of engaging diverse voices in decision-making processes, particularly those directly affected by the outcomes.

Resources:

Jeiri on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/dangerously_gifted/

Jeiri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeiri-flores-b7bb3651/

Jeiri's story about her mom: https://youtu.be/bq62Q7Cg85g?si=Il5zrhoH74ZcYRaa

Thank you to our sponsor, IXL: https://www.ixl.com/inclusive

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