We delve into the world of people with disabilities who identify as nerds and geeks. While some might think the term is insulting, our guests today wear these titles as a badge of honor.
Disability advocates Emily Bridges and Rachael Davis talk about the different aspects of nerd culture and why they find the community accepting of those with disabilities.
Max McClure talks about the challenge of making geek culture accessible.
Lastly we hear from Katie O’Rear, a self-described chicken geek.
So today, as you polish your Star Wars action figures, turn off “Weird Al” and listen to Pushing Limits instead.
Emily Bridges, MPH, CHES, Pronouns: She/Her/Hers, is a Public Health Advocate at the Independent Living Resource Center in Ventura, California.
< >
1. The Geeky Gimp (NOTE: The website’s creator uses the term “gimp” as a way to reclaim an oppressive word and turn it into a word of empowerment):
2. Disabled Gamers, Geeks, and Nerds on Facebook. A community for PWD to share thoughts on”anything geek oriented.
3. The Learned Fangirl: Committed to providing critiques from women and people of color on pop culture, technology, and other related topics.
——DISASTER RELIEF————
Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs)
Residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding can update their FEMA applications and learn about state and community programs and other available assistance.
Each DRC provides the following standard accessibility resources:
- On-site American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter
- Remote ASL interpreting through Zoom
- Assistive listening devices (Pocket talkers)
- Magnifying glasses
- Manual wheelchairs
- Language translation services (in-person and/or telephonically)
- People who can assist survivors to read/write/complete forms
The Merced County DRC:
Merced County Fairgrounds (Yosemite Building)
900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Merced, CA 95341
Hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
Dates: January 18 through 25, 2023
The Sacramento County DRC:
Chabolla Community Center
600 Chabolla Avenue
Galt, CA 95632
Hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
Dates: January 18 through February 1, 2023
A Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Santa Cruz County
Ramsay Park Family Center
1301 Main St.
Watsonville, CA 95076
Hours of operation: 9:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
Dates: January 21 through February 18, 2023
Resources:
Cal OES Resources
Support for Californians impacted by the winter storms:
2023 Winter Storms Recovery (English)
2023 Winter Storms Recovery (Spanish)
Video Resources (ASL included)
For an accessible video on how to apply, go to FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance.
This video covers how to register: Important Registration Assistance Information for People with Disabilities
This video covers very specifically question 24 (1 minute video):
Applying for Assistance: Important Information for People with Disabilities (Question 24
Individuals and Households Program Disability Cap
Federal Resources
California Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides DR-4683-CA
Apply for Disaster Assistance:
The fastest way to apply is through DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply through the FEMA mobile app or by calling 1-800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services, please provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
Get Immediate Help:
Find help with needs that FEMA is not authorized to provide. Check with your local emergency management officials, voluntary agencies, or by dialing your local 2-1-1.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Help for Individuals and Families After a Disaster
I Applied for Assistance. What’s Next?
You will receive notification letters from FEMA either by U.S. mail or by electronic correspondence explaining your next steps. If you reported during the application process that you received damage and are not able to live in your primary residence, an inspector will contact you by phone to schedule an inspection. FEMA home inspections are conducted in-person; however, if you are apprehensive due to ongoing COVID-19 uncertainties, you can request we conduct the inspection without entering your home. Learn more about the steps after applying.
“Help After a Disaster” Brochures
Translated into 27 languages, the “Help After a Disaster” brochure is a tool that can be shared in your community to help people understand the types of FEMA assistance that may be available to support individuals and families in disaster recovery. Download brochures.
L. Vance Taylor
Chief, Office of Access and Functional Needs
California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services
3650 Schriever Avenue
Mather, CA 95655
916-845-8202 (o)
916-205-1630 (c)
—–
This episode of Pushing Limits is produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton and hosted by Mark Romoser and with editing assistance from Mark Romoser, Sheela Gunn-Cushman and Adrienne Lauby.