Self-Advocate, Ackeem Duggan, Discusses the Power of Voting for IDD and His Work as a Poll Worker on CBS News New York

October is National Disability Voting Rights month, and one of our passionate self-advocates, Ackeem Duggan, was featured on CBS News New York, where he spoke about the vital importance of voting for people with IDD. Ackeem, who serves as a poll worker and coordinator in East Harlem, discussed how individuals with disabilities often face barriers to voting that aren’t always recognized.

Ackeem’s segment highlighted his role in ensuring voting accessibility, particularly through his work with specialized equipment like the Ballot Marking Device, which helps those with visual or manual limitations vote independently. His dedication to both advocating for those with IDD and providing first-hand support at the polls makes a powerful statement about the need for inclusion and accessibility in the voting process.

Hear Ackeem share his insights and experience as a poll worker, and why every vote matters for the IDD community. Watch the full segment below.