In recognition of Native American Heritage Month in November, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the Indigenous community throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts. Profiles of these leaders are being published in November.
These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Cody Rooney is a disability rights activist. (Contributed photo)Contributed photo
Cody Rooney
Age: 25
Community: Amherst
His story: Cody Rooney’s passion for disability and youth rights began before the pandemic. But witnessing social injustice during the pandemic ignited his “hardcore passion for what I do today,” he said.
Rooney is focused on creating an equal and inclusive society with accessibility as a key component, he said.
He was re-elected as the vice-chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council in September and has worked with Partners for Youth with Disabilities as a fellow and peer leader for the Youth Leadership Forum, among other work, according to the committee website.
He credits his Native American culture for giving him the encouragement to work in activism.
“If it wasn’t for all the good words and the good feelings, I don’t believe I would be where I would be today,” he said.
In his words: “Make sure your heart is in the right place. Because if it’s not, it’s really easy for people to tell.”
We’re always open to hear about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
