ACT Memo

As you requested, this is your ACT Self-Advocacy Resource Network Memo facilitating a national dialogue among self-advocates and supporters and a clearinghouse for materials and training that support self-advocacy.

July 2, 2008

History Note: Unshakable Governor

One of the signers of the Declaration of Independence had cerebral palsy. Stephen Hopkins was active in Rhode Island politics for more than forty years. He was elected governor nine times.

Hopkins was more than just another signer: he was a key leader in the revolution. As he signed, here’s what he said: “Though my hands shake, my heart does not.”

1.	More About Stephen Hopkins
2.	Group Activity
3.	Resource


1.	More About Stephen Hopkins You can read about Stephen Hopkins in Wikipedia. [Return to top]


2.	Group Activity Talk about the words of Stephen Hopkins (above). This is a powerful statement. He did not want to be limited. Divide into groups of four. Have each group come up with a statement like Stephen’s—something similar, but true for you, such as about your power. Then have each group make a poster with their statement. [Return to top]


3.	Resource Declarations of Independence Hear ten self-advocates with clear vision and steady hearts talk about their core values in this four-minute discussion-starting video. [Return to top]

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Today’s Trivia Question:

Charles Carroll of Carrollton was the only signer of the Declaration of Independence who was what?

	a.	blind
	b.	deaf
	c.	not a land owner
	d.	Roman Catholic

(The answer will be published
in the next Memo.)

Answer to June 25th Trivia Question:
b. Robert Hensel

Question was: Who holds the Guinness Book World Record for the longest nonstop wheelie in a wheelchair?

a.	Bruce Pasternack, Special Olympics president
b.	Robert Hensel (see above)
c.	Julie Petty, SABE president
d.	Franklin Roosevelt

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