Dignity in Pay: Advancing Equity: Eliminating Subminimum Wage and Paving the Way for Competitive Employment in Illinois

Summary: Join UIC as they delve into a vital presentation hosted by the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. UIC will shed  shed light on House Bill 793 House Amendment 1: the Dignity in Pay Act. This groundbreaking legislation aims to phase out 14(c) Subminimum Wage for individuals with disabilities in Illinois. This session will provide comprehensive insights into the legislation’s contents, its current status, and the ongoing endeavors to educate legislators and essential stakeholders. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed and engaged in shaping a more equitable future for all. Speakers: Mariel Hamer-Sinclair Mariel Hamer-Sinclair is a dynamic leader and advocate, serving as the Associate Director of Program & Policy at the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities (ICDD). Leading the Program & Policy Unit, Mariel supervises a dedicated team and implements forward-thinking strategies that enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities across Illinois. She oversees 15-30 statewide contracts and grants, manages the grant-making process, and coordinates key initiatives in Education, Employment, Health, Housing, Transportation and more. Gary Arnold: Gary Arnold has more than two decades of professional experience working in the disability community. In July of 2023, Arnold started working as a Program Specialist with the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities, an Illinois State Agency dedicated to inclusion and opportunity for people with developmental disabilities. Prior to that, Arnold led teams at Progress Center and Access Living, centers for independent living in Cook County. Additionally, Gary held leadership roles on the board of directors for Little People of America (LPA). A resident of Oak Park, Illinois, Gary serves as chairperson of the village’s Disability Access Commission.