Bruce Darling has carved out a formidable legacy as a champion for disability rights, co-founding and leading the Center for Disability Rights (CDR) in Rochester, New York, as President and CEO. Over his illustrious career spanning nearly four decades, he has been a staunch advocate for independent living, consistently ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to the necessary resources and support.
Rooted in his challenges with neurodivergence, Bruce's journey into advocacy was shaped early on by the educational system's limited support for disabled students. His mother, Norita, was instrumental in recognizing and addressing his academic needs, providing a strong foundation to influence his life's work.
After completing his secondary education at McQuaid Jesuit High School in 1983, Bruce pursued further studies at the University of Rochester, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1986. His academic journey was rich and varied, covering a spectrum of disciplines, including literature, psychology, sociology, photography, filmmaking, and history, complemented by business courses at the Simon School. he continued to broaden his expertise at Syracuse University, where he earned a Master of Science in Public Relations Management in 1989, acquiring skills that would prove invaluable in his advocacy efforts.
In 1990, Bruce used his passion and skills to help establish the Center for Disability Rights (CDR). Under his leadership, CDR has tackled major issues within the disability community, including accessible housing and public transportation and advocating for community-based alternatives to institutional care.
One of Bruce's significant projects began in 2000, aimed at transitioning individuals from nursing homes into community settings, in alignment with the principles of the 1999 Olmstead decision. This decision advocates for providing services in the most integrated settings possible, a principle that has guided much of his work.
Beyond his local impact, Bruce has also influenced disability policy at the state and national levels. He has played a key role in developing and implementing the Community First Choice Option and has collaborated with various government agencies to enhance disability rights and integration.
Bruce's activism has not been confined to policy work; he has been actively involved in direct action efforts, including the 1987 campaign for wheelchair lifts on public buses in Rochester, NY, and leading the Summer of ADAPT in 2017, a significant nationwide protest emphasizing the resilience and determination of the disability rights movement.
Bruce has been recognized with numerous accolades for his relentless advocacy, underscoring his profound impact on disability rights. These awards highlight his contributions to policy and his influential role in mentoring the next generation of advocates.
In his personal life, Bruce enjoys a rich and fulfilling relationship with his husband and their two border collies. His hobbies, including gardening, cooking, and crafting, provide him with joy and relaxation and counterbalance his demanding professional life.
Bruce E. Darling's career is a testament to the transformative power of dedicated advocacy and deep-seated commitment to social justice. As the co-founder and CEO of the Center for Disability Rights, his efforts have significantly bettered the lives of many individuals with disabilities, advocating for their rights and dignity. His legacy is marked by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the inherent worth of every individual.
