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Know and Exercise Your Rights as a Disabled PersonGet Involved

Edited by Harri, Nicole Willson, Martyn P

There are many rights you should be aware of if you are disabled. In 1990, the U.S. Department of Justice formed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to protect individuals with disabilities. Without information, awareness and resources for people with disabilities, it would be impossible for the disabled to know and exercise their rights.

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EditMethod 1 of 2: Know and Exercise Your Rights as a Disabled Person

  1. 1
    Order copies of free Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) materials. You can get these from the U.S. Department of Justice.
    • You can also call the ADA's 24-hour, toll-free number to listen to recorded information or to order information pertaining to disability rights over the phone.
    • The ADA offers its publications in standard print, large print, Braille, on audiotape or on a computer disk.
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  2. 2
    Join an alliance for Disability Awareness or become a member of Disability Independence. There are many programs available to the disabled. Joining an alliance is a great way to build your own awareness, advance your goals and secure your interest.
  3. 3
    Network with organizations that serve as advocates for individuals with disabilities. Nationally recognized organizations include Disabled World and the National Disability Rights Network.
    • These groups provide many resources and information, and they provide assistance to those with disabilities.
  4. 4
    Check out Diversity World online for Disability and Employment resources.
    • Subscribe to free monthly newsletters or to RSS feeds from organizations specializing in disability rights.

EditMethod 2 of 2: Get Involved

  1. 1
    Visit the U.S. Access Board FY 2011 Budget Justification. This is an independent Federal agency that focuses attention on accessibility for people with disabilities.
    • Attend a board meeting in Washington. These meetings are held every 2 months and are always open to the public. The Board coordinates with Federal agencies directly representing the public.
    • Order a single copy of the Access Board Publication free of charge. You can download these forms from the government website. You can also order multiple copies by filling out the online form.
  2. 2
    Lobby members of boards and councils by presenting accurate and specific information regarding disability access, accommodations or other rights.
  3. 3
    Search for publicity and support for implementing, extending and promoting disability rights.
    • Call your local newspaper, television and radio stations to raise awareness.
    • Identify specific problem areas like the lack of wheelchair ramps or improper handicapped parking use.
    • Ask for a call to action when you perceive a problem.
    • Request simple modifications initially. For more intense modifications, try to establish a time frame for the completion of the modifications.
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Tips

  • You can file a complaint with the Department of Justice if you feel someone has violated your rights. The online complaint instruction and forms are available on the ADA website.
  • Once you are familiar with the laws and rights for the disabled, you can become an advocate for others.
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Article Info

Categories: Disability Issues

Recent edits by: Nicole Willson, Harri

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