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Disability News You Can Use

Disability News You Can Use

By: Disability News You Can Use
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 Join Deanne Gagne and Andrew McQuaide as they discuss topics impacting Rhode Island's Disability Community and share practical ways you can use information from each episode in your life. Disability News You Can Use is sponsored by Advocates in Action Rhode Island - Rhode Island's statewide self-advocacy organization.2026 Disability News You Can Use Politics & Government Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Episode 17 - Interview with Dr. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin

    Episode 17 - Interview with Dr. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin
    Feb 28 2026

    Join us for a conversation with Dr. Adiaha (pronounced /ah dee YAH/) I. A. Spinks-Franklin, MD, MPH, FAAP.

    Dr. Spinks-Franklin is a Board-certified Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician, Lifelong Anti-Oppression/Pro-Liberation Social Justice Warrior, Black/African American; she/her/hers. Owner, DBP Doc, PLLC, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatric Consultation, Education, and Training. Immediate Past President, Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (SDBP). And from the ancestral lands of the Kickapoo, Osage, Kiowa, Wichita, and Comanche Nations.

    We discussed engaging topics, including the intersectionality of disability, race, and gender, ableism, implicit bias, and healthcare. Hear Dr. Spink-Franklin's unique perspective on these topics and more.

    Resources from the episode:

    • Take care of your mind, body, and spirit:
      • National Suicide Lifeline 988
      • CDC for scientifically accurate vaccine information
      • WebMD for scientifically accurate health information
      • HealthyChildren.org for scientifically accurate child health information
    • February is Black History Month
      • https://www.blackhistorymonth.gov/
      • https://www.history.com/topics/black-history
      • https://www.archives.gov/news/topics/african-american-history
      • Unbirthday - the date of your birthday on each month that is not your birthday month.
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    54 mins
  • Episode 16 - Interview with Kevin Savage

    Episode 16 - Interview with Kevin Savage
    Dec 19 2025

    Join us as we interview Kevin Savage, Director of the Division of Developmental Disabilities. We talk about what the Division has focused on, what has gone well, and what still needs some work from this year. We also touch on what the Division's plans are for 2026 and some goals Kevin has for himself in the New Year.

    Contact Information:

    • For the Division:
      • Phone: 401-462-3421 (main line)
      • Email: BHDDH.AskDD@bhddh.ri.gov
    • Kevin Savage contact:
      • Phone: 401-462-0581
      • Email: Kevin.Savage@bhddh.ri.gov

    Resources from the episode:

    • Conflict Free Case Management
    • Division Events and Forums
    • Employment
    • Consent Decree
    • Rhode Island Statewide Workforce Initiative
    • RI Cross Disability Coalition
    • Advocates in Action Leadership Series
      • Enrollment for the 2026 Leadership Series has already begun. Deadline is Friday, January 16.

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    40 mins
  • Episode 12 - Interview with Donna Martin

    Episode 12 - Interview with Donna Martin
    Jun 13 2025
    Join us as we interview Donna Martin, Vice President of State Partnerships and Innovation, with the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR). We discuss changes in federal policy, the potential impacts of budget changes, and what individuals can do to have a voice in the conversation. Resources mentioned during the episode: Ancor Website Ancor Amplifier Enjoy!
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    26 mins
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