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Julie Clark testifies against cuts to Medicaid

One advocate from the United Churches, Julie Clark, was at a press conference with Senator Patty Murray, advocating for no cuts to Medicaid.  Photo courtesy of Julie Clark

One advocate from the United Churches, Julie Clark, was at a press conference with Senator Patty Murray, advocating for no cuts to Medicaid.                                         Photo courtesy of Julie Clark

At the invitation of The ARC of Washington, Julie Clark, a member of United Churches of Olympia for 30 years, recently joined a press conference with Senator Patty Murray to share her experiences as a woman living on Medicaid and struggling with cerebral palsy and bipolar disorder.

“I spoke about Medicaid and how cuts would affect people with disabilities,” Julie said.

“I am concerned about the cuts to Medicaid and how the cuts will affect the quality of health care people with disabilities will receive,” she said.

“I spoke about myself and what I do to advocate for others as well,” she said.

Members from the church and her pastor, Lara Crutsinger-Perry came to the rally and press conference at the capitol to support her.

The ARC of Washington advocates for services and funding to meet needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Julie, who grew up and attended a UCC church in Portland, Ore., earned an associate’s degree in computer programming at a community college in Washington.

“I worked for the State of Washington for 17 years before retirement,” said Julie. “Now, I work for and am on the board of Kokua Services, a nonprofit agency that provides residential and community support services to adults with disabilities in Thurston County.

“I became involved in advocacy because I was retired and wanted to work in something I was passionate about. I am involved with advocacy groups like People First and the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council, as well as ARC of Washington,” she said.                 

“Churches should be involved because we believe in justice,” she explained.

 

Pacific Northwest Conference United Church News Copyright © April 2025

 

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