North Dakota Olmstead Commission

09/03/2025

Su***de is a leading cause of death. But here's something we often forget- it's also one of the most preventable. Support saves lives. Listening saves lives. Connection saves lives.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988. Help is free, available 24/7, and completely confidential.

https://988lifeline.org/
https://myfirstlink.org/
https://www.communityoptionsnd.com/free-through-recovery/
https://www.communityoptionsnd.com/community-connect

***dePreventionMonth

09/02/2025

Please join us for September's Understanding Disabilities: "Crip Camp, a history of Self Advocacy," September 2nd, 5:00-7:30pm.

For September's Understanding Disabilities, you may join us in person at DCIL, or watch on your own time via the YouTube link on the flyer (scan QR code to access, or use the clickable link on flyer).

For those joining us at the DCIL office for viewing, a round table discussion will follow the film.

09/02/2025

September 2025 Olmstead Newsletter

09/02/2025

This September, we honor Su***de Prevention Month, a time to spread hope, encourage conversation, and ensure that no one feels alone in their struggles.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988. Help is free, available 24/7, and completely confidential.

***dePreventionMonth

08/29/2025

In 2024, nearly 40,000 individuals nationwide were employed under 14(c) certificates. Sixteen states have passed laws to end subminimum wage. It’s time for North Dakota to end subminimum wage.

08/28/2025

While some worry that ending 14(c) could make it harder for individuals with severe disabilities to find or keep jobs, with proper training, support, and thoughtful transition planning, it can lead to greater wage equality and inclusion without leaving anyone behind.

08/27/2025

Many employers using 14(c) certificates operate sheltered workshops, where individuals with disabilities do repetitive tasks for very low wages. Ending 14(c) could lead to the closure of sheltered workshops unless they transition to competitive integrated employment models that pay at least minimum wage.

08/25/2025

Many workers employed under 14(c) certificates are not in competitive, integrated work environments. This means they earn less than minimum wage and have limited opportunities to interact meaningfully with coworkers who do not have disabilities.

08/22/2025

Many are familiar with the push to raise the federal minimum wage above $7.25, but far fewer know about an 87-year-old law that allows businesses to pay disabled workers less than minimum wage. Under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, some workers with disabilities can legally be paid less than minimum wage.

08/21/2025

2nd annual Olmstead Conference: The Road to Freedom, Choice, and Dignity

08/20/2025

There are a number of resources available to assist employers in understanding their responsibilities under the ADA:

Job Accommodation Network (JAN) www.AskJAN.org

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) www.eeoc.gov

U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) ADA Homepage www.ada.gov

Americans with Disabilities Act National Network www.adata.org

08/18/2025

Disability can happen to anyone, at any time. Disability rights are human rights. Access, dignity, and inclusion shouldn’t be optional — they should be built in.

Disability is the only minority group anyone can become a member of at any time. In fact, if you’re lucky enough to grow old, you will experience some degree of disability.

So think ahead: when it’s your turn, will you want your autonomy, decision-making, and dignity protected?

Let’s make sure disability rights matter to everyone — now.