Minnesota Is Expecting Us

(a Minnesotan press release)

FARIBAULT — A woman who would like to wipe out the word “disabled” is making a stop in Faribault next week.

Judith Snow, 58, of Toronto, Canada, is making Minnesota a destination on her “World Peace Through Inclusion Tour.” She is spending the month of April visiting various places in Minnesota to advocate for those labeled “disabled” to be included as part of society, said Barb Handahl of Faribault.

Handahl got to know Snow through her own work with Minnesota’s State Operated Group Homes. Handahl led an effort to connect people with developmental disabilities with community groups and activities that they could benefit from being a part of. She met Snow at a inclusion conference.

“Judith is a very intelligent and remarkable woman,” Handahl said.

Snow has no use of her body below the neck except for the ability to move one thumb. The use of that thumb allows her to drive a motorized cart to get around. But, Handahl said, Snow depends on attendants for her personal care needs.

In spite of her physical mobility limitations, Snow has earned two master’s degrees and traveled to three continents advocating inclusion of people with disabilities in society.

So many barriers exist to keep those label “disabled” from fully being part of society, Handahl said.

“Judith envisions what the world would look like if everyone was included in it, and accepted for who they are,” Handahl said.

Snow has worked for more than 30 years throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, the Caribbean and Canada advocating for training and education programs for people with disabilities. Her models resulted in thousands of people with disabilities getting jobs, homes, new relationships and support systems that lead them to greater participation in their communities.

Snow will be speaking to the Faribault’s Future leadership group from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 9. From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. that evening, a potluck to welcome her to town will be held at the Faribault Chamber of Commerce and Tourism office.

After her initial visit to Faribault, Snow will speak at a conference and events in St. Paul. But on April 19, she returns to Faribault for a special concert. From 2:30 to 4 p.m. that day at JavaLive coffee house, local folk signer Rafi Dworsky will be join Snow for a presentation for young children.

She will give presentations at Eagan, Rochester, Minneapolis and Duluth before returning to Canada on April 27.

Who: Judith Snow, international advocate for inclusion of people with disabilities.

Where: Faribault Chamber of Commerce office, 530 Wilson Ave.

When: 5:30 p.m. potluck, 6:30 p.m. conversation and desert, April 9

How: Call Barb Handahl, 507-210-0711 to register to attend

— Staff writer Pauline Schreiber may be reached at 333-3127.