Minnesota Catholic teen an advocate for people with disabilities

Published: 2005-07-15

ST. PAUL, Minn. (CNS) -- Jessica Billings was 5 years old when, she recalled, a woman approached her family at a restaurant and complained, "My husband and I paid good money for our meals, and we don't appreciate having him here." The woman was referring to Billings' brother, Jamey, who has autism and sometimes makes loud noises or has erratic movements. At the time, Billings said, "I didn't even know what to feel." But the experience left a lasting impression on her. Now, at age 18, the Bloomington teen has dedicated her life to advocating for people with disabilities and educating others about people with special needs. Growing up, Billings said, her brother's disability was not something she talked about. Often she felt embarrassed when Jamey's outbursts or movements attracted attention. At age 13, Billings broke her silence. She wrote an essay about her brother for a contest sponsored by the Bloomington Human Rights Commission. Not only did Billings win the contest, she was invited to join the commission, making her the youngest voting member.

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