
Four
Principles
The
self-determination movement was founded on four basic American
principles:
FREEDOM: to exercise of the
same rights as all citizens. People with
disabilities with assistance when necessary will establish where they
want to live, with whom they want to live, and how their time will be
occupied. They do not have to trade their inalienable rights guaranteed
under the Constitution for support or services.
AUTHORITY: the control over
whatever sums of money are needed for one's
own support, including the re-prioritizing of these dollars when
necessary.This is accomplished through the development of an individual
budget that "moves" with the person.
SUPPORT: the organization of
these resources as determined by the
person with a disability. This means that individuals do not receive
"supervision" and "staffing." Rather, folks with disabilities may seek
companionship for support and contract for any number of discrete tasks
for which they need assistance.
RESPONSIBILITY: the wise use of
public dollars. Dollars are now being
used as an investment in a person's life and not handled as resources
to purchase services or slots. Responsibility includes the ordinary
obligations of American citizens and allows individuals to contribute
to their communities in meaningful ways.
Danny is definitely not getting these
basic rights!