ROCH returns to DC

NEW YORK – United Spinal will bring more than 100 wheelchair users to Washington, D.C., on June 12 – 15 for the 10th Annual Roll on Capitol Hill. 

ROCH is United Spinal's annual flagship advocacy event, gathering the organization's members and supporters to encourage elected officials to support policy initiatives that empower and promote the independence and quality of life of people with disabilities. 

"The disability rights movement is as old as the modern age, and still we fight,” said Vincenzo Piscopo, president and CEO. “New advancements in society that benefit the majority often spur new inequities for people with disabilities. We've won major victories in navigating our cities' buildings and transit systems—now it's time to finish the project of full equality. Roll on Capitol Hill plays a significant role in reminding us of all of the work that we have to do—and it shows how powerful our community is when it's united.” 

ROCH will focus on the following issues: 

• Supporting more robust SCI Model Systems funding to ensure that newly injured individuals receive necessary health care and services. 
• Ensuring passage of the Air Carrier Access Amendments Act and advocating for other protections for travelers with disabilities. 
• Emphasizing the importance of personal care services to pursuing economic independence and mobility. 
• Advocating for Department of Veterans Affairs funding for automobile grants for disabled veterans that are necessary for community living. 
• Seeking action on outdated and restrictive federal regulations that prevent all wheelchair users from having access to the wheelchair that's right for them. 

United Spinal will also hold a reception on June 14 as part of ROHC to recognize several leaders for their achievement in disability rights, including Reps. Robert C. Bobby Scott, D-Va., and Jim Langevin, D-R.I., and Richard Bagby, director of United Spinal Association of Virginia.