Hello, my name is Leigh Spruce. I am a self-advocate with a disability who lives in Mill Creek Washington State. I have to admit that didn’t know that much about the DDC or the work that they do, but I did know that it was important after I learned that members are appointed by the Governor. I wanted to learn about its impact on the disability community, and to lend my self advocacy voice, and life experience, which I feel should include everyone to forge change. I believe that everyone should be included.

My favorite parts of being on the Council are, learning about what other disability agencies do as well as their impacts on our population, and knowing what has to be done to be purposeful.

I have met many wonderful friends during my time on the Council, as well as traveled around the State seeing how our work can benefit the underserved communities by educating them about our council.

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I have rallied and connected with my State Representatives, to pass laws affecting the disability population by meeting with them in person whenever possible, as well as by testifying virtually about bills that are important to me that I feel would benefit everyone. I strongly support the recent passing of the Nothing About Us Without Us Act.

Two things that really stand out for my while being on the Council are- witnessing the new Governor being sworn in back in January. This happened on my Birthday. The other thing is the faith that my fellow council members have in me by electing me as their new co-chair of the council. I have undergone training learning about the intersectionality of culture, and approach to disability to serve everyone in a respectful way.

I hope that my work on the council will have an impact on the disability community for many future generations to come to make change in all aspects of their lives

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