07/21/2026

Advocacy in Action: Board Member Marci Straughter Represents Ohio in D.C.

Advocacy in Action: Marci Straughter Represents Ohio in D.C.

Every meaningful change begins with someone willing to speak up.  

For Marci Straughter, advocacy isn't something that happens only during legislative sessions or at conferences. It's a lifelong commitment to ensuring that people with developmental disabilities are heard, respected, and included whenever decisions are made that affect their lives.

Recently, Marci traveled to Washington, D.C., as part of the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council to participate in the National Council on Independent Living's annual conference and advocacy day. Alongside advocates from across the country, she met with federal policymakers—including U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno—to discuss the issues that matter most to people with disabilities and the communities they call home.

Marci brings a unique perspective to every conversation. She serves on OACB's Board of Trustees, is a member of the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities, and contributes her leadership to numerous statewide organizations focused on advancing disability rights, community inclusion, and public policy.

Her experience demonstrates something that has always been true: the most effective advocates are often those with lived experience.

People with developmental disabilities understand better than anyone how public policy, community services, transportation, employment, housing, healthcare, and other decisions affect daily life. Their perspectives cannot be replaced by statistics or reports. When policymakers hear directly from people whose lives are shaped by these decisions, the conversation becomes more informed, more personal, and ultimately more effective.

Advocacy also extends beyond Washington or the Ohio Statehouse. It happens in county board meetings, community organizations, advisory councils, and conversations with local elected officials. Every opportunity to share a personal story helps build understanding and reminds decision-makers that policies affect real people, real families, and real communities.

At OACB, we believe people with developmental disabilities should not simply be included in policy discussions—they should help lead them. Their voices strengthen public policy, improve services, and ensure that the priorities of Ohio's developmental disabilities community reflect the experiences of those they are intended to serve.

Marci's leadership is a powerful example of what that looks like in practice. Whether serving on governing boards, collaborating with fellow advocates, or meeting with members of Congress, she demonstrates the impact one person can have by showing up, speaking out, and encouraging others to do the same.

As we celebrate Marci's work in Washington, we're reminded that advocacy belongs to everyone. Every story shared, every relationship built, and every conversation with an elected official has the potential to make a difference.

Thank you, Marci, for your continued leadership on behalf of Ohio's developmental disabilities community!