Disability laws are written, implemented, and enforced everyday without the input of people with disabilities. This needs to change and the Collective Disruption is here to help make that change.

The Collective Disruption is a statewide movement for disability rights, leadership, and civic engagement. It is a coalition of disabled Montanans and disability led organizations across Montana.

Real change starts with real people. Build your skills, share your experience, and learn how you can push to make Montana work better for people with disabilities.

Several individual training opportunities are listed below. Please sign up for any and all that look interesting to you.

New to disability advocacy or looking for a refresher on disability rights? This training will cover the basics of disability rights, accessibility, ableism, independent living philosophy, and the history of the disability rights movement. Perfect for self-advocates, allies, family members, and anyone wanting to build a stronger foundation in disability rights.

Participants will learn that advocacy does not require a professional title or policy background; lived experience itself is valuable expertise. The session is designed to help people build confidence, identify their strengths, and discover ways to engage in advocacy that feel authentic and sustainable.

Curious about how Montana’s legislative session works and how to get involved? This training will walk participants through the basics of the legislative process, how bills move through the legislature, how to track legislation, testify in hearings, communicate with legislators, and effectively participate during the session. Participants will also learn practical strategies for advocacy during the legislative session and ways to stay engaged throughout the process. Great for first-time advocates, self-advocates, community members, and anyone interested in disability policy and systems change. Co- Hosted by Catalyst.

Stories can create understanding, influence decision-makers, and help drive meaningful change. This training will focus on how to share personal experiences in ways that are impactful, authentic, and grounded in advocacy. Participants will learn strategies for using storytelling in public comment, legislative advocacy, and conversations with policymakers while also exploring boundaries, preparation, and ways to share experiences safely and effectively. No public speaking experience is required.

Each training last one hour and when offered at multiple different times it is to offer you options, but you only need to chose one of each training. All trainings are via zoom.

ASL interpretation is provided at each. Please contact us at Disability Rights Montana if you have any other accommodation requests.