Breaking Barriers Conference Returns to Central Oregon

Annual event focuses on inclusion and empowerment for people with disabilities

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bold, stylized silkscreen illustration featuring a wheelchair icon repeated in a grid pattern, using a bright neon color palette and heavy black outlines to transform an everyday accessibility symbol into a modern pop art design.The Breaking Barriers conference celebrates inclusion, empowerment, and self-advocacy for the disability community in Central Oregon.Redmond Today

The 9th Annual Breaking Barriers, Life Beyond Labels Conference will take place on Tuesday, April 21st at the Deschutes County Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. The conference brings together over 500 participants to learn, connect, and inspire change, with a focus on creating an inclusive community where barriers don't exist and labels such as disability have no meaning.

Why it matters

The Breaking Barriers conference is an important annual event that promotes inclusion, independence, and opportunity for people with disabilities in Central Oregon. By providing educational sessions, a resource fair, and a platform for self-advocates, the conference aims to break down stigmas and empower individuals to live full and successful lives.

The details

This year's keynote speaker is Cainan Molzer, a self-advocate from Southern Oregon who is dedicated to advancing inclusion and independence for people with disabilities. The conference will feature 31 breakout sessions on topics like positive behavior support, career exploration, and self-care strategies. Attendees will also have access to the largest disability resource fair ever held in Oregon, with 75 exhibitors providing tools and services.

  • The 9th Annual Breaking Barriers, Life Beyond Labels Conference will take place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
  • Doors open at 8:15 AM.

The players

Cainan Molzer

A self-advocate based in Southern Oregon who is dedicated to advancing inclusion, independence, and opportunity for people with disabilities. He attends Rogue Community College, volunteers at his local church, and serves on the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Full Access High Desert

One of the local and state partners that helped make the Breaking Barriers conference possible.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Everyone deserves the support and respect needed to live a full and successful life.”

— Cainan Molzer, Self-advocate and keynote speaker

What’s next

Registration is required to attend the Breaking Barriers conference. For more information or to register, visit the event website at http://www.breakingbarriersoregon.com/.

The takeaway

The Breaking Barriers conference is a vital platform for promoting inclusion, empowerment, and self-advocacy for people with disabilities in Central Oregon. By bringing together a diverse community of participants, the event aims to challenge stigmas, share resources, and inspire positive change.