Bruce Darling@brucedarling
Bruce Darling has been a seminal figure in the disability rights landscape, serving as the co-founder, President, and CEO of the Center for Disability Rights (CDR) in Rochester, New York. His career spans nearly four decades of dedicated advocacy for independent living, during which he has tirelessly worked to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive the essential resources and support they need.
Bruce's advocacy journey was shaped by his own experiences with neurodivergence, particularly in an educational system that offered minimal support for disabled students. His mother, Norita, recognized his unique academic needs and provided crucial foundational support in his development and future advocacy work.
Following graduating from McQuaid Jesuit High School in 1983, Bruce attended the University of Rochester, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1986. His education was wide-ranging, incorporating studies in literature, psychology, sociology, photography, filmmaking, history, and business studies at the Simon School. He furthered his education at Syracuse University, obtaining a Master of Science in Public Relations Management in 1989, which equipped him with valuable public relations, communications, and management skills.
In 1990, Bruce utilized his education and personal insights to co-found the Center for Disability Rights. Under his leadership, CDR has addressed key issues in the disability rights movement, such as accessible housing, public transportation, and promoting community-based alternatives to institutional care.
Bruce spearheaded a pivotal initiative in 2000, focusing on transitioning individuals from nursing homes to community settings. This initiative aligned with the principles of the 1999 Olmstead decision, which advocates for services to be provided in the most integrated settings possible, highlighting his commitment to enhancing the autonomy and quality of life for people with disabilities.
Bruce's influence has extended beyond local initiatives, impacting disability policy on state and national levels. His efforts have been instrumental in implementing the Community First Choice Option and collaborating with government agencies to advance disability rights and integration.
His advocacy also includes significant grassroots efforts, such as the 1987 campaign for wheelchair lifts on public buses in Rochester, NY, and his leadership during the Summer of ADAPT in 2017. This nationwide protest demonstrated the strength and determination of the disability rights movement.
Bruce has received numerous awards for his advocacy work, reflecting his significant impact on the disability rights field. These honors recognize his policy contributions and his role in inspiring future advocates.
In his personal life, Bruce enjoys a rewarding relationship with his husband and their two border collies. His hobbies, such as gardening, cooking, and crafting, provide him with moments of relaxation and pleasure, offering a welcome respite from his demanding advocacy work.
Bruce E. Darling's career is a profound testament to the power of committed advocacy and a deep commitment to social justice. As the co-founder and CEO of the Center for Disability Rights, he has profoundly influenced the lives of countless individuals with disabilities, championing their rights and advocating for their dignity. His legacy is characterized by resilience, dedication, and a deep belief in the inherent worth of every person.