Disability activist plans to speak to Democratic group

YUKON — Jeff Hughes, executive director of Progressive Independence Center for Independent Living in Norman, will speak to the Canadian County Democrats on Monday about the integration and full inclusion of people with disabilities into the mainstream of society.

A longtime Democrat and disability activist, Hughes was elected as an affirmative action officer during the Oklahoma Democratic Party convention in April.

The public is invited to the 7 p.m. meeting at the Yukon Police Department, 100 S Ranchwood Blvd.

Hughes will speak about combined efforts of Oklahoma ADAPT disability activists and Democrats involved in the RESIST movement. He also will focus on the development of a disability caucus in Oklahoma and state support for the national REV UP campaign focused on increasing the political power of the disability community.

Hughes, a leader in the independent living movement since it began in Oklahoma in 1993, accepted his current position at Progressive Independence in 2000. He has held state and national leadership offices, including committee chairmanships for the National Council on Independent Living.

Established in 1981, Progressive Independence offers information and referral, peer support, independent living skills training, advocacy and transition to community living services. The primary service area is Canadian, Cleveland, McCain, Oklahoma and Pottawatomie counties.

Canadian County Democrats meet at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of the month at the Yukon Police Department.

The group’s annual Fiesta featuring candidates for special election and entertainment by the Bean Supper Band is scheduled from 6-8:30 p.m. July 22 at Redlands Community College conference center, 1300 S Country Club in El Reno. Tickets are $45 though Monday and $55 after that date and at the door. Cocina De Mino Mexican Restaurante will cater the event.

For more information, call 354-3189 or go to www.canadiancodems.org.