Deborah Cunningham 1945-2015

Memphis Center for Independent Living Journal

Friday, May 8, 2015

Dear Friends in Disability Advocacy,

Deborah Cunningham, ADAPT activist and Executive Director of the Memphis Center for Independent Living, died yesterday 5/7/15 with her family and friends by her side.

Deborah served as activist, mentor, friend, sister and boss to many in Memphis and across the country. She worked with and for the Memphis Center for Independent Living since its inception in 1982 working for Easter Seals and then in 1985 when it was chartered as an independent non-profit she continued to serve as an independent living specialist and mentor to individuals with disabilities like herself. Deborah stepped up to become Executive Director in 1989 and was known nationwide as an exceptional example of advocate and leader. I count myself lucky to have known and worked with this awesome woman for almost 30 years in one capacity or another. She was my IL specialist in 1985, my mentor always and my boss and friend for the last 15 years.

Tim Wheat wrote; “Before there was any home and community options in Tennessee, Deborah was the “conductor” of the Disability Underground Railroad that moved people with disabilities from institutionalization into their own homes in Colorado where there are community living options. Deborah was proud to direct a progressive Center for Independent Living that focused on integration, equality and activism. She was the mentor for many individuals in the Disability Rights Movement and a skilled director, speaker and teacher.”

To read the full article, click the button below.