Wagons to Waivers
– narrated by Reba McEntire

Oklahoma has experienced a century of change in the way it serves citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This documentary takes viewers on an emotional journey from the days of the Dust Bowl and covered wagons to the establishment of the self advocacy movement and shows the state’s progression from institutions to full community inclusion.

Beginning in 1909 with the creation of “The Institute for the Feeble Minded”, Oklahoma’s story includes the tears and efforts of parents, the stories of people who grew up in institutions, the legal struggles, and the triumph of self-advocacy.
Today Oklahoma’s service programs are among the best in the nation. This documentary illustrates how the state has achieved success and why Oklahoma’s services have become the standard for the rest of the nation.

This film is a production of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, Developmental Disabilities Services Division. Country music superstar and Oklahoma native Reba McEntire donated her time to this project. Written by: Sheree Powell and Judy Leitner. Videography and editing: Michael Chambers. (2008)

Total running time for the documentary is 1 hour and 28 minutes. The film is divided into chapters for ease of viewing. The chapters are numbered so they may be viewed in chronological order. This film may also be seen on OETA. Check your local television listings for channels and air dates. If you would like to request a free DVD copy of this program, please contact the OKDHS Developmental Disabilities Services Division at (405) 521-3571.

If you would like to learn more about developmental disabilities services in Oklahoma, please visit the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Developmental Disabilities Services Division website.