Connie Laurin-Bowie

Connie Laurin-Bowie brings over 30 years of expertise in advocacy, movement building, international development, and public policy, having served as the Executive Director of Inclusion International for 15 years.

A globally recognized leader in disability rights and inclusion, Connie played a pivotal role in successfully negotiating critical articles on inclusive education, legal capacity, and the right to live in the community for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). She has been instrumental in supporting persons with intellectual disabilities to actively participate in decision-making processes and in advocacy efforts.

Her leadership in advancing disability inclusion within complex governmental and UN systems has driven meaningful change, demonstrating her ability to build strong, diverse partnerships. Connie’s successes in introducing disability rights in non-traditional arenas will help DRF forge new alliances and increase opportunities for promoting inclusion.