Center for Independent Living - Berkeley 28d ago

In this episode of The Independent, host Dr. Victor Pineda sits down with Mayor Adena Ishii of Berkeley to explore what it means to lead a city through the lens of disability justice, belonging, and community care. As the birthplace of the independent living movement, Berkeley occupies a unique place in disability history. Mayor Ishii reflects on her journey into public service, the values that shape her leadership, and how Berkeley's legacy of activism continues to inform its future. This conversation explores: - What belonging means in city governance and community life - The challenges disabled residents face amid housing, economic, and climate crises - How disability justice intersects with housing, racial, and climate justice - The role of local government in advancing access, equity, and inclusion - Why community organizations and resident engagement are essential to meaningful change - Together, Victor and Mayor Ishii discuss how cities can become more responsive, accessible, and accountable - and what it takes to build communities where everyone can thrive. Subscribe to The Independent, produced by the Center for Independent Living (CIL), for more conversations on disability justice, leadership, and the future of inclusive communities. Support the work of CIL and help sustain conversations like this: Donate today at https://thecil.org/donate/