United Spinal Association and approximately 200 advocates from across the country gathered virtually June 14-16 for the 2021 Roll on Capitol Hill, meeting with their representatives in Congress to ensure that people with spinal cord injuries and disorders are included in shaping disability policies.

Roll on Capitol Hill provides United Spinal members a platform to amplify our voices on issues that impact our health and independence, share our experiences as wheelchair users, and be proactive in advocating for disability rights at state and national levels.

“We need events like Roll on Capitol Hill more than ever,” says Vincenzo Piscopo, United Spinal’s president and CEO. “The stories we tell about being able to land our dream job, move to our dream cities and live truly independent lives, or proudly roll across the stage at graduation, continue to be matched by those who remain underserved by our society. There’s so much work to be done.”

This year, with 200 virtual Congressional office visits completed in one day, Roll on Capitol Hill attendees advocated for issues critical to the disability community, including transportation, broadband access, telehealth, veterans’ health, SCI model systems funding, and home and community based services funding.

Davita Carter, an advocate from Illinois, was one of many first-time Roll on Capitol Hill attendees who came away energized and motivated to get more involved. “Thank you for letting me know my voice matters,” she says. “This is such a cool organization, and I hope this is just the first of many years that I can be a part of Roll on Capitol Hill. I’m excited.”

On the afternoon of June 16, United Spinal hosted its Congressional and Corporate Advisory Council Reception to recognize individuals dedicated to strengthening disability rights and inclusion. Awardees included:

• Natalie Barnhard — 2021 Finn Bullers Advocate of the Year Award

• U.S. Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas — 2021 James J. Peters Distinguished Veterans Legislator Award

• U.S. Representative Dina Titus of Nevada — 2021 United Spinal Outstanding Congressional Leadership Award

“This award is such an honor because I’m able to bring awareness to the changes I am working hard to make here in my community,” said Barnhard. “As an advocate, I hope to make lasting changes for people who live with SCI/D with their physical recovery and create a better quality of life for everyone through physical rehabilitation, accessibility, care and support.”

The reception also commemorated United Spinal’s 75th Anniversary and its mission to build an inclusive world that empowers all people with disabilities. United Spinal highlighted the impact of its programs and services and recognized the vital support of its corporate partners, which make a substantial difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities, their families, friends and caregivers.