Self Advocacy
Self-advocacy refers to the ability of an individual to assert their own needs, preferences, rights, and interests in various aspects of their life. It involves the active and assertive expression of one’s thoughts, desires, and concerns, with the goal of ensuring that their own voice is heard and respected. Self advocacy empowers individuals to advocate for themselves in order to make informed decisions, access resources, and assert their rights. At the earliest level, learners are supported to identify and communicate what they want and don’t want. Teaching learners to say no, decline, opt out, and withdraw consent is a priority for all learners at all ages and levels.