(WNY News Now) – PA – “Don’t Leave Me Out!”: Holistic Approaches for Disability Inclusion and Conflict Resolution.

In celebration of Disability Pride Month, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) will host its second annual disability conference, titled “Don’t Leave Me Out! Holistic Approaches for Disability Inclusion & Resolving Conflict.” This dynamic, one-day hybrid event will be held on July 9, 2024, at the Harrisburg Hilton and online, aiming to enhance collaboration with individuals with disabilities in navigating conflict.

The conference will feature a range of engaging sessions focused on diverse conflict scenarios, including bullying, interactions with the criminal justice system, armed conflict, and mediation. Designed to educate Pennsylvanians about their rights, explore innovative ideas, and connect participants with vital resources, this event promises to be both informative and inspiring.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, July 9, 2024
• Time: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Breakfast & Registration at 8:00 a.m., Program starts at 9:00 a.m.)
• Location: Hilton Hotel, One North Second Street, Harrisburg
• Registration: Free, but pre-registration is required

PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “Our planning committee is dedicated to creating a program that will inspire and motivate attendees to stand up against injustice.”

The conference will open with a plenary session on disability rights under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, followed by concurrent sessions on bullying and harassment of youth with disabilities and the impact of war on disabled individuals. Keynote speaker Imani Barbarin, a renowned writer and disability rights activist, will deliver a lunchtime address. The afternoon sessions will cover the criminal justice system’s interaction with people with disabilities and the use of mediation to resolve accommodation disputes.

PHRC Hearing Examiner and Disability Conference Committee member Darlene Hemerka, Esq., highlighted the event’s global panelists and the overarching goal: “The aim is to empower people with disabilities to navigate and thrive in conflict situations.”

Participants will also have the opportunity to visit vendor tables showcasing various resources. Vendors interested in participating should contact Brittany Mellinger at bmellinger@pa.gov to secure a spot, as space is limited.

About PHRC: The PHRC enforces state laws against illegal discrimination. To file a complaint, call 717-787-4410. For more information and resources, visit www.PHRC.pa.gov. Follow PHRC on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube, and subscribe to their monthly newsletter.