Join the Department of Behavioral Health and the Office of Disability Rights in celebrating the 11th Annual Olmstead Community Integration Conference on August 23rd. This year's theme and focus is, "supporting community integration for justice-involved individuals".

This day-long event is free and will include a diverse group of speakers discussing their own personal experiences of moving from an institute setting into the community. Multiple exhibitors with great resources will be available. The event is free and is intended for everyone.

Accessibility: The ARC is wheelchair accessible. We ask that your refrain from wearing perfumes or colognes for those with chemical sensitivities. Lunch will be provided. For other accommodation requests please contact, Jonathan.Brooks@dc.gov or 202-299-5748.

What is Olmstead?

The Olmstead Case created a ruling by the United States Supreme Court on June 22nd, 1999, that requires states to eliminate unnecessary segregation of persons with disabilities and to ensure that persons with disabilities receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs. This decision was in response to a suit brought on by two women, Lois Curtis and Elaine Wilson, who were in a mental health institution even after medical personnel acknowledged that both women were ready and able to live in the community.

The District of Columbia continues to be committed to the Olmstead Community Integration Plan outlined in D.C. Act 16-595 The Disability Rights Protection Act of 2006. The District values its residents with disabilities as contributing members of society and understands the cost-effective benefits of supporting them with integrated, community-based services.

Sponsors:

• Department of Behavioral Health (DBH)
• Office of Disability Rights (ODR)