Bruce Darling Male • United States of America

Bruce Darling has distinguished himself as a key advocate in the disability rights arena, co-founding and steering the Center for Disability Rights (CDR) in Rochester, New York, as its President and CEO. Over his expansive career, which has lasted nearly four decades, he has dedicated himself to advocating for independent living and ensuring that individuals with disabilities are provided with the necessary resources and support.

His engagement in disability rights advocacy is rooted in personal experiences. As someone who is neurodivergent, Bruce faced significant challenges due to the lack of adequate educational accommodations during his school years. His mother, Norita, recognized his unique needs and provided the support that was essential for him to overcome these challenges, profoundly influencing his future advocacy.

Bruce completed his high school education at McQuaid Jesuit High School in 1983 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Rochester in 1986. His academic pursuits were extensive, covering literature, psychology, sociology, photography, filmmaking, and history, supplemented by business studies at the Simon School. He further advanced his skills at Syracuse University, earning a Master of Science in Public Relations Management in 1989, which equipped him with valuable public relations, communications, and management skills crucial for his advocacy work.

In 1990, leveraging his educational background and personal motivation, Bruce helped establish the Center for Disability Rights. Under his leadership, CDR has tackled critical issues facing the disability community, including accessible housing, public transportation, and promoting non-institutional living solutions.

Bruce spearheaded an initiative in 2000 that focused on transitioning individuals from nursing homes into community settings in alignment with the principles of the 1999 Olmstead decision. This decision advocates for services to be provided in the most integrated settings possible, highlighting his commitment to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities.

Bruce's influence is also evident in his contributions to disability policy at the state and national levels, including his work on the Community First Choice Option and his collaborations with government agencies to strengthen disability rights and integration.

His advocacy also extends to grassroots efforts, including the 1987 campaign for wheelchair lifts on public buses in Rochester, NY, and his significant role in the Summer of ADAPT in 2017, a series of nationwide protests that illustrated the disability rights movement's resilience and determination.

Bruce has been honored with numerous awards for his advocacy efforts, reflecting his significant impact on the disability rights landscape. These accolades recognize his contributions to policy and his role in inspiring future generations of advocates.

Outside of his professional life, Bruce enjoys a rich personal life with his husband and their two border collies. He finds relaxation and fulfillment in hobbies such as gardening, cooking, and crafting, which provide him with moments of tranquility amid his demanding advocacy work.

Bruce E. Darling's career is a profound testament to the power of dedicated advocacy and a deep commitment to social justice. As the co-founder and CEO of the Center for Disability Rights, he has made significant strides in improving the lives of many individuals with disabilities, championing their rights and advocating for their dignity. His legacy is characterized by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the inherent worth of every person.