I thought they were just gonna throw papers at me and say, ‘Here, sign this.’ But they were so welcoming,” Donna said of the center’s staff. “They were Navajo, too. They understood what we were going through.” McKerry and her team were able to advocate for Taylor at school, convincing officials to provide her with a paraprofessional and ensuring that she had access to the resources she needed.
For McKerry, stories like Taylor’s are what keep her going, despite the uncertainty of funding and the challenges of navigating complex legal systems. “I do it because I care,” she said. “I see these people every day, and I can’t just turn a blind eye to their struggles. They deserve better.”
As the battle over funding for protection and advocacy programs continues, McKerry and her colleagues remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the disabled community on the Navajo Nation. Their work is not just about providing physical care, but also about upholding the rights and dignity of every individual they encounter. And as long as there are people in need of their support, they will continue to fight for the resources necessary to ensure that those needs are met.
Donna, who wished to remain anonymous to avoid retaliation, shared her experience of feeling at home when she saw Native faces at a center. Her granddaughter, Taylor, faced bullying at school but found support from the center’s staff who advocated for her rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Taylor, who lost both her parents before the pandemic, received the necessary treatment for her anxiety and depression.
Yanan emphasized the importance of having staff members who represent the community they serve, like the center does. This sense of community and representation is crucial for providing effective support to individuals with disabilities, especially Native Americans. The center’s work, which is vital for individuals like Taylor and the estimated 40,000 Native people with disabilities, showcases the impact of their advocacy efforts.
As funding levels for protection and advocacy programs remain uncertain, the significance of the center’s work cannot be understated. McKerry’s dedication to helping individuals in need, especially those on the reservation, reflects the commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. The sight of farmlands, hogans, and fields on the reservation serves as a reminder of the community’s strength and resilience.
STAT’s coverage of disability issues is made possible by grants from Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and The Commonwealth Fund, with no influence on editorial decisions. The financial supporters play a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of quality journalism that sheds light on important issues impacting marginalized communities.
