Bruce Darling

Bruce Darling has established himself as a prominent advocate and transformative leader within the disability rights movement. As the co-founder, President, and CEO of the Center for Disability Rights (CDR) in Rochester, New York, he has dedicated nearly four decades to championing the rights and independence of people with disabilities. His efforts have significantly influenced public policy transformed community services, and enhanced the lives of countless individuals, making him a cornerstone of the disability justice movement.

Early Life and Educational Journey

Bruce's commitment to disability rights is deeply personal, rooted in his own experiences as a neurodivergent individual navigating an educational system that lacked adequate support for students with disabilities. Recognizing his potential, his mother, Norita, became his greatest advocate, providing the support necessary for him to succeed. He completed his secondary education at McQuaid Jesuit High School in 1983, setting the stage for his higher education pursuits.

He attended the University of Rochester and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1986. Bruce's university education was rich and varied, encompassing literature, psychology, sociology, photography, filmmaking, history, and business courses at the Simon School. This diverse academic background gave him a broad perspective and critical thinking skills that would later inform his advocacy work.

1989 Bruce furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Science in Public Relations Management from Syracuse University. The program equipped him with advanced public relations, communications, and management skills, preparing him for the complex challenges of advocacy and organizational leadership.

Founding the Center for Disability Rights

In 1990, Bruce co-founded the Center for Disability Rights, establishing a new beacon for disability advocacy in Rochester, New York. CDR was conceived as an independent living center committed to advancing the rights of individuals with disabilities and promoting community integration over institutionalization. Under his leadership, CDR has tackled crucial issues such as accessible housing, public transportation, and implementing community-based living alternatives.

One of Bruce's most impactful initiatives was the 2000 project to transition individuals from nursing homes to community-based settings. This project, aligned with the principles of the 1999 Olmstead decision, demonstrated his commitment to ensuring services for people with disabilities are provided in the most integrated settings possible.

Advocacy at the Forefront

Bruce's advocacy efforts extend far beyond the local level. He has played a pivotal role in advancing policies that promote community living for individuals with disabilities both nationally and in New York State. Some of his notable accomplishments include:

• Assisting in the development and implementation of the Community First Choice Option.
• Collaborating with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the national Money Follows the Person Demonstration Program.
• Leading efforts to file complaints with the Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights.
• Organizing and participating in direct action activities to ensure the practical application of the Olmstead decision.

He has also authored several public policy analyses on disability rights issues, including the influential "Early to Bed/Late to Rise," a 200-page evaluation of community-based personal assistance services published by CDR in 1993. 

Many of the recommendations from this report have been implemented through the development of consumer-directed personal assistance programs in multiple counties in upstate New York.

A Legacy of Activism

Bruce's activism is not just about leadership; it's about setting an example and empowering others. His most significant activism effort, the Summer of ADAPT in 2017, was a nationwide protest that demonstrated the power and determination of the disability rights movement. As the lead organizer, he orchestrated a series of impactful protests from Arizona to Alaska and Maine to Miami, highlighting the urgent need for disability rights reform across the United States.

Recognition and Impact

Bruce's dedication to disability rights has earned him numerous accolades and recognitions throughout his career. Some of the most prestigious awards he has received include:

• Inductee, New York State Disability Rights Hall of Fame, New York State Independent Living Council, 2019
• Lead On Award, Access Living, 2018
• Rudy Frank Award for Activism (Accepted for ADAPT), Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, 2017
• Frank Harkin Memorial Award, National Council on Independent Living, 2016
• Sally Johnston Advocacy Award, Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Association of New York State, 2015
• Justice for All Disability Rights Award, American Association of People with Disabilities, 2011
• Dr. Henry Viscardi Jr. Advocacy Award, New York State Assembly, 2007
• Corey Rowley National Advocacy Award, National Council on Independent Living, 2004
• Francis Olivero Advocacy Award, New York State Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services, 2004
• Robin Shaikin Systems Advocacy Award, New York State Independent Living Council, 2001
• Region II Advocacy Award, National Council on Independent Living, 2001

Beyond Advocacy: Personal Life and Interests

Outside the realm of advocacy, Bruce leads a fulfilling personal life. He and his husband share their home with their two border collies, finding joy and relaxation in their company. His hobbies, such as gardening, cooking, and crafting, offer him tranquility and a respite from his demanding work, balancing his personal and professional life.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement

Bruce's commitment to social justice extends to his philanthropic efforts. He regularly supports disability and LGBTQ+ organizations, and much of his advocacy work, especially in the early years of CDR, was voluntary. This demonstrates his deep commitment to the cause, professionally and personally.

The Continuing Journey

Today, as CDR's co-founder and President, Bruce remains a pivotal figure in the disability rights movement. His legacy is not merely in the policies he has helped shape or the programs he has developed, but in the lives he has touched and the community he continues to inspire. His work exemplifies a profound commitment to justice, equality, and the dignity of all individuals, ensuring his impact will resonate for generations to come.

Bruce E. Darling's career is a testament to the power of dedicated advocacy and visionary leadership in the fight for disability rights. His influence on public policy, community organization, and individual lives has not only transformed the landscape of disability services but also inspired a new generation of advocates to continue the fight for a more inclusive and equitable society.