Reverend Sarah Lund advocates for disability inclusion in medical training

In a heartfelt appeal during the Indiana State Legislature's Judiciary meeting on April 7, 2025, Reverend Dr. Sarah Lund emphasized the urgent need for greater awareness and training regarding disabilities within the healthcare and educational systems. As a mother of a child with an invisible disability and a participant in the LEND program at the Indiana School of Medicine, Lund shared her personal experiences and advocated for the inclusion of disability education in discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Lund highlighted that disability is often the largest form of marginalization, affecting countless families across the state. She expressed concern over the recent cancellation of significant portions of her program's curriculum, which aimed to educate future professionals on the importance of sensitivity and understanding when working with disabled children and their families. Lund recounted a troubling incident where a care provider laughed at the emotional responses of parents receiving a diagnosis, underscoring the need for empathy and proper training in these critical situations.

Her testimony resonated with the committee, as she called on lawmakers to recognize the importance of inclusive practices that honor all individuals, regardless of their background or abilities. Lund's passionate plea serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by families with disabilities and the vital role that education and advocacy play in fostering a more inclusive society.

As the meeting progressed, other committee members acknowledged Lund's testimony, indicating a growing awareness of the need for legislative action to support families affected by disabilities. The discussions from this meeting may pave the way for future initiatives aimed at enhancing training and resources for healthcare providers and educators, ultimately benefiting the community at large.