59Bruce Darling is a prominent leader and advocate within the disability rights movement, having co-founded and served as the President and CEO of the Center for Disability Rights (CDR) in Rochester, New York. His nearly four decades-long career is marked by a relentless commitment to advancing independent living and securing essential support for individuals with disabilities, positioning him as a key figure in the fight for disability justice.
Bruce's passion for advocacy is deeply rooted in his personal experiences as a neurodivergent individual during a time when educational systems offered limited testing and accommodations for disabled students. His journey was greatly supported by his mother, Norita, who was crucial in ensuring he received the support necessary to thrive academically and personally.
His academic pursuits began at McQuaid Jesuit High School, culminating in his graduation in 1983. He then attended the University of Rochester, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1986. His education was broad and interdisciplinary, encompassing studies in literature, psychology, sociology, photography, filmmaking, and history, enriched by business courses at the Simon School. Bruce furthered his education with a Master of Science in Public Relations Management from Syracuse University in 1989, gaining vital skills that would later bolster his advocacy initiatives.
1990 Bruce realized his vision by establishing the Center for Disability Rights (CDR). Under his leadership, CDR has tackled significant issues within the disability rights landscape, advocating for accessible housing, public transportation, and community-based alternatives to institutional care.
A pivotal project initiated by Bruce 2000 aimed to transition individuals from nursing homes to community settings, reinforcing his commitment to the principles of the 1999 Olmstead decision, which advocates for disability services to be provided in the most integrated setting possible.
Beyond local efforts, Bruce has been instrumental in shaping disability policy at both the state and national levels. His contributions include facilitating the implementation of the Community First Choice Option and collaborating with various government agencies to promote disability rights and integration.
Bruce's advocacy also includes significant campaigns such as the 1987 initiative for wheelchair lifts on public buses in Rochester, NY, and his leadership in the Summer of ADAPT in 2017—a series of nationwide protests that underscored the disability rights movement's determination and resilience.
Bruce has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to disability rights, acknowledging his profound impact on public policy and his role in inspiring a new generation of advocates.
In his personal life, Bruce enjoys a fulfilling life with his husband and their two border collies. He finds solace and rejuvenation in hobbies such as gardening, cooking, and crafting, which provide him with a peaceful break from his advocacy work.
Bruce E. Darling's career is a testament to the enduring impact of dedicated advocacy and a strong commitment to social justice. As the co-founder and CEO of the Center for Disability Rights, he has made a significant difference in the lives of many individuals with disabilities, championing their rights and dignity. His legacy is characterized by resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in each individual's value.