VERMONT DEMOCRATIC DISABILITY CAUCUS
Mission
The mission of the Vermont Democratic Disability Caucus of the Vermont Democratic Party (VDP) is to create visibility and a strong voice for our Disability community in Vermont politics, by providing an intersectional space for People with Disabilities to connect, create safety, and build political power.
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Support, mentor, and elect candidates who stand up for Vermont’s Disability community, particularly candidates with Disabilities, to diversify and grow political engagement for a just and democratic society at all levels of government.
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Support elected Disability Democrats through partnership and community presence.
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Advocate for policies and practices that uplift our community and stand up against attacks on People with Disabilities by mobilizing communications and people in support. Recognizing different forms of institutional and cultural ableism, including how to counteract them, is integral to our mission. We must recognize ableism in laws, policies, and practices, as well as respond to and understand innovative alternatives.
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Promote a sense of community, belonging, and celebration of our community, and help build a culture of inclusivity and equity within the VDP. Advocate for our community to the VDP and ensure accessibility, representation, and support.
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Collaborate with and support initiatives, and grassroots groups, that support our Disability Vermont community and the Vermont Democratic Party.
Caucus Leadership
Chair
Keilani Lime
she/her
Keilani is a disability rights activist and a person living with disability and chronic illness. She currently serves as a member of the Disability Community Advisory Board for Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE).
She holds a degree in Fine Art in Advertising and has built a dynamic career in marketing, working with nonprofits, startups, and small businesses. Her work has taken her across a range of sectors, from helping shape Vermont’s medical cannabis program to leading marketing efforts for a world-renowned youth circus.
In addition to her advocacy and professional achievements, Keilani is an accomplished painter with a small but engaged following.
As an activist, she is dedicated to centering the voices and experiences of people with disabilities. Her work focuses on improving accessibility, expanding educational opportunities, and raising awareness about disability rights and justice to drive meaningful change.
Outside of her professional life, Keilani is an avid gardener and amateur herbalist. She lives in a 200-year-old farmhouse in Vergennes, Vermont with her fiancé, Dan, and their goofy mutt, Mookie Petts.
Vice Chair
Nick Brosseau
he/him
Nick has long been passionate about politics and the law, and his experience reflects that commitment. He graduated with a degree in Political Science in 2015 and recently completed an internship with the Vermont Democratic Party, deepening his understanding of party operations and grassroots organizing.
A proud public servant, Nick currently serves as Town Chair of Swanton and is an active member of the Franklin County Democratic Committee, where he helps coordinate local strategy and encourage civic engagement. He also serves as a delegate to the State Committee representing Franklin County.
Nick’s political aspirations include pursuing a professional career in either politics or law. Volunteering has been central to his journey; he consistently lends his time to support Democratic efforts across Vermont, helping with outreach, campaign activity, and community organizing.
Before his current political involvement, Nick gained diverse workforce experience as a person with a disability; he’s held regular jobs at McDonald’s and worked in a factory, jobs that have grounded him in the realities of working-class life and informed his approach to public service.
Blending his professional ambitions with real-world experience and grassroots leadership, Nick brings enthusiasm, empathy, and a clear vision for leveraging politics to create meaningful change in Vermont.
Secretary
Meacie Fairfax
she/her
As Strategy Director at Complete College America, she partners with colleges and university systems to design student supports that support learners and their communities. Meacie also serves as Secretary of the Vermont Democratic Disability Caucus and collaborates with national accessibility coalitions in higher education to advance systemic change.
Her community engagement includes serving on the Board of the Community Sailing Center and as an active member of Unlikely Riders, where her commitment to equity intersects with her belief that outdoor spaces are for all. Throughout her career she has consistently amplified overlooked voices while advocating for policies that prioritize equity, mental health, and universal access.
An advocate for drug reform and mental health services, Meacie brings authenticity and humanity to difficult conversations.
When not working, you'll find her near lakes or streams, or tending and admiring plants. She and her partner, Shu, a former landscaper navigating chronic illness, are neighbored in Burlington with their buddy, Tayda.
Events
The VDDC Meets the last Tuesday of every month on Zoom from 6PM-7:30PM. Meetings are open to the public; must be a Democrat, or dem-leaning, and want to work to make Vermont a more accessible state for all!
