Independent living, is a philosophy and a worldwide movement of individuals with disabilities working for equal opportunities, self-determination, and self-respect.  It stems from the fundamental principle that people with disabilities are entitled to the same civil rights, options and control over choices in their own lives as people without disabilities.

Centers for Independent Living (CILs) are consumer‑controlled, community‑based, cross‑disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agencies operated by individuals with disabilities, providing an array of independent living services.