Abraham Tieman

I am multi-racial, come from a mixed socio-economic family, am a veteran,

and also identify with the LGBTQ community, in addition to being disabled.

Of these labels, I believe that my experience with disability has always

been a major factor in how society treats me, as well as how it intersects

with my lived experiences of being multi-racial, of mixed socio-economic

class, a veteran, and a member of the LGBTQ community. I grew up in

Rochester, MN, joined the Minnesota Army National Guard shortly after

high school, and after that, went to the University of Minnesota: Twin

Cities for my bachelor’s in Communication Studies. After graduating, I

worked as a participant surveyor for the Olmstead Quality of Life Project,

volunteered as a poll worker for the 2024 elections, and later joined the

Minnesota Council on Disability as well as did work for the Department of

Veterans Affairs.

I am an active listener. When it comes to 1 on 1 conversations, I focus on

pressing concerns, life experiences, and opinions without judgement,

ensuring that we both leave the conversation having learned something

new.

I am a firm believer in the ability of people to do the right thing and in

making their own decisions. Independence and community engagement

are crucial in this day and age.

My intersectional background provides me with the opportunity to

represent multiple perspectives.

Having the opportunity to make a meaningful, positive impact on my

community and others like me.

Meeting with people who share a background with me, as well as

educating others about my background and the issues we face.

Contributing to our collective understanding of the disabled experience.

I enjoy listening to nonfiction audiobooks and relaxing music, as well as

playing strategy and RPG games, especially with my friends. Occasionally

I will binge watch a popular tv or anime series. Multitasking is the way I

like to do things, which means I am almost always listening to audiobooks

and music while I am taking care of household chores, out and about, or

gaming solo. In recent years, I have enjoyed going on long vacations such

as backpacking solo across Europe and going on long road trips to visit

family.