Author: Derek I. Schmitz

Derek, 20, disabled, chronically ill, non-binary (they), and queer person. Lead Advocate @ Derek Schmitz: Advocacy, accessibility consultant, author, and paralegal. Views mine, not a lawyer. Alabama, USA - Progressive

Reflections on my Time at Gadsden State Community College

Derek I. Schmitz

In this piece, I reflect on my time in the Paralegal Program at Gadsden State Community College, where I graduated from in May.

Advocacy Alert: Comment by June 16 in Opposition of Department of Energy Accessibility Rule Changes

Derek I. Schmitz

The Department of Energy currently has two "direct final rules" that will adversely affect disability rights. One of these rules removes regulations requiring new buildings to be accessible, and the other would remove accessibility requirements for older buildings and alterations to buildings. Further, the rules remove highly-specific language regarding accessibility requirements, called the Uniform Federal… Continue reading Advocacy Alert: Comment by June 16 in Opposition of Department of Energy Accessibility Rule Changes

HHS Makes Groundbreaking Announcement on Long COVID Definition

Derek I. Schmitz

I share my thoughts on the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine's new definition of Long COVID.

Gov. Ivey’s Response to My Medicaid Expansion Letter

Derek I. Schmitz

Last month, I wrote a Letter to Governor Kay Ivey Regarding Medicaid Expansion in Alabama. In it, I requested a response in writing in the mail. Today, I received it, and in the interest of transparency, I'm releasing it publicly (with my address information redacted, of course). Response to Derek Schmitz from Governor Kay Ivey, dated… Continue reading Gov. Ivey’s Response to My Medicaid Expansion Letter

Transition Maine Summit Recap

Derek I. Schmitz
Derek stands next to a moose cutout in front of a blue Transition Maine photo wall. They are wearing blue glasses, a mask, a watch, a navy shirt, and khaki pants. Their hair is pulled back into a ponytail.

I recently spoke at the Maine Department of Education's Transition Maine "I Belong" Youth Summit, delivering a keynote on "A Self-Advocate's Guide to Transition." It was heartwarming to see students and educators engaged and inspired by the possibilities of the future. The event left a lasting impact, and I look forward to their future endeavors.