The Anchorage ADA Advisory Commission voted to forward a proposal for an education and public relations program to the director of boards and commissions for guidance on process and possible submission to the Anchorage Assembly. The commission approved the motion after discussion about campaign tactics, costs and potential partners.

The plan, presented by Onomay, recommends a public‑awareness ad campaign (television and newspaper/web) running roughly six to 12 weeks, weekly feature stories of local disabled residents, community events that showcase disabled artists and musicians, and recognition for employers and community leaders who support disability inclusion. “So let's see. Nearly 30% of Alaskans have a disability,” Onomay said while outlining the program’s rationale and examples of campaign content.

Commissioners discussed combining recognition for businesses with awards for individuals who lead in disability inclusion and suggested leveraging existing events and partners such as University of Alaska Anchorage contacts, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and the Equal Rights Commission’s social channels. Jessica moved that the commission send the proposal to Marie Huesta, director of boards and commissions, for procedural guidance; the motion was seconded and carried with no recorded objections.

Members flagged funding as a constraint: the commission has no dedicated outreach budget and any request for municipal funds would need to be included in the Equal Rights Commission’s upcoming budget submission. Jennifer Booz, identified in the discussion as executive director of the Equal Rights Commission, was named as a potential point of contact for staffing and budget questions.

Next steps: the commission will share the proposal with Marie Huesta and seek advice on the formal process for presenting the recommendation to the Anchorage Assembly, including whether a fiscal note or additional materials are required. Commissioners also agreed to follow up with Maya (staff) to confirm whether prior outreach to auditors or other staff had already answered procedural questions.

The commission scheduled further discussion and outreach planning for a future meeting; members asked staff to compile contact lists and preliminary cost estimates before presenting to the mayor’s office or assembly.