I wrote the letter to the Chicago Tribune Editorial Board in response to their
editorial, “When Illinois chewed up a life.”
Tony
The Arc of Illinois appreciates the strong editorial support for closing
antiquated state institutions in Illinois in “When Illinois chewed up a life.” This
is good public policy because instead of wasting away people’s lives in state
institutions, we are putting our limited resources into community living by
supporting people with disabilities close to family and friends. Research has
proven that small group homes are healthier and safer for people with the
most severe disabilities.
David Tom regained his freedom after 31 dreadful years, but today, far too
many Illinois citizens with intellectual disabilities remain isolated from the
community in antiquated state institutions. We commend Governor Quinn for
his efforts to rebalance the disability system here in Illinois because it is
good public policy and the right thing to do.
We also call on legislators to support the Governor’s rebalancing efforts
including the closure of the state institution in Centralia, Murray
Developmental Center.
.
Tony Paulauski Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@www.thearcofil.org
