Next Step

Next Step™ is a grassroots movement that attacks the root causes as well as the symptoms of the social and economic exclusion of people with disabilities and other devalued groups through non-violent strategies and tactics. It was founded by people with disabilities with extensive experience in organizing for social change. We came together to confront the greatest threats we have faced in the last thirty years.

We recognize that other groups that society also devalues, the poor, most ethnic minorities and women, have incurred similar losses over the last three decades and face comparable threats today. That recognition requires us to move disability advocacy out of the realm of special pleading and into the arena of broader social activism.

It calls for the political and economic transformation of our society.

We can make that happen, but only in coalition with others: those who are similarly devalued; those who are committed to the basic restructuring of a society that now favors rich over poor and benefits the few through its commitment to war and militarization; those who understand that the promise of civil rights cannot be met until all people attain human rights: the rights to economic security, housing, health care, education and employment.

Next Step™ is incorporated as People with Disabilities For Social and Economic Justice, a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization. Its goals and objectives are set annually by all of its members. Its Board of Directors then develops strategies to achieve those goals and objectives at regular open meetings.