Advocacy is actively supporting a cause or idea. In Makom’s long history, advocacy has been a small part of our contribution to the community. In light of recent developments at both the Maryland state and federal levels, Makom is building a voice with an ask for you to join and lend your voice to the cause.

Currently, there are urgent budgetary concerns at both the state level in Maryland and the federal level, and they may feed into each other. If Maryland cuts DDA funding, then the federal government through Medicaid will match the reduction. Separately, there are proposed federal cuts and changes to Medicaid which would have a profoundly negative impact on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the country. These causes are ever-evolving and subject to change.

We are asking you to communicate with your state and federal legislators in opposition to funding cuts and programmatic changes that would dramatically harm people with IDD and the providers that support them. We are asking that you share messages on social media and talk with your friends so that they may also join our cause. The more people that reach out and the more messages that are received, the greater the impact of our efforts and the greater the chance for positive outcomes.

Yes! The answer is a resounding yes. As a democracy, our elected officials hold their seats because they are chosen by the people for the people. When we voice our concerns to our elected officials, they hear them. When large groups of people raise the alarm around or support different issues, legislators take notice and may act accordingly.

Makom is taking steps to make this an easy ask. We are updating our Action Center, where you will find two sections- one dedicated to Maryland issues and one dedicated to the federal issues. We will provide easy to use forms that will automatically reach your specific legislators. We will provide sample phone scripts, social media posts and graphics, resources and articles, and general updates at each level. Each time you send a message or talk to a friend, you are making a difference.

We're here to help! If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to marketing(at)makomlife.org.