News
Many in the disability will be saddened to learn that a champion of the Australian disability rights movement has put in their resignation as CEO of the Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA).
DANA CEO, El Gibbs, handed in her resignation in order to focus on her health, according to the organisation.
Ms Gibbs is a seasoned advocate, communications expert, and NDIS specialist, having spent over fifteen years working in policy, strategy, and advocacy for the rights of people with disability, according to her website.
El Gibbs joined DANA in May 2023 in the role of Director, Policy and Advocacy, before being promoted to CEO in April this year.
In a statement posted on the organisation’s website, DANA acknowledged Ms Gibbs’ dedication to the disability community.
El has reinforced DANA’s position as a ever-reliable and trusted national voice for independent advocacy, and all while being a tireless advocate for people with disability
Disability Advocacy Network Australia
Disability Advocacy Network Australia Board Chair, Wendy Prowse, says the DANA Board is forever grateful for the contribution the disability advocate has made the community.
“While we are incredibly sad that she is leaving, we are also pleased that she is prioritising her health and wellbeing,” says Ms Prowse.
A number of people within the disability sector have sent their thanks and well wishes to Ms Gibbs via LinkedIn, including Jane Britt, who works in Disability Policy.
“What has always had my greatest respect is that you have ensured the voices of those not often heard from in discussions, yet the same people who are most marginalised, are lifted up,” she says.
On her departure, Ms Gibbs posted to her LinkedIn to say that she hopes to be back in the fight for disability liberation and inclusion again soon.
“Disabled bodies are what give us so much of the deep expertise and understanding of the exclusion and experiences of being disabled in this world, but they are also the same bodies that end up in the emergency room, plugged into all the things.”
In the meantime, the much loved advocate will continue her role as the Co-Chair of the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee.