How to Know and Exercise Your Rights as a Disabled Person

Modern societies mandate laws to increase equal access for all citizens, but individuals cannot use those rights unless they understand them.

Things You'll Need

• Complying With The ADA - A Guidebook
• Workplace Disability Management
• Directories Of Elected Officials
• Disability Rights Advocates
• Self-help Law Books
• Amplified Telephones
• Talking Calculators
• Talking Keyboard
• Text Telephone
• Talking Clocks
• Hearing-impaired Alerting Systems
• Wheelchair Ramps
• Internet Access
• TDD/TSS Services
• Computers
• Speech Recognition Software
• Lever Locksets
• American Sign Language Video

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Instructions

• 1

  Study the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other applicable national and local laws extending access to citizens with disabilities.

• 2

  Join alliances such as a local council on independent living.

• 3

  Start an advocacy group if one is not active in your area.

• 4

  Seek out experts in disability law who might provide pro bono aid.

• 5

  Take part in government.

• 6

  Attend meetings and volunteer for positions on state committees, city councils, and local housing and zoning boards and commissions.

• 7

  Lobby members of boards and councils by presenting factual information regarding disability access and accommodation.

• 8

  Consider becoming a candidate for office.

• 9

  Seek publicity for the implementation and extension of disability rights.

• 10

  Contact local television and radio stations and newspapers and point out problem areas such as the lack of wheelchair ramps or improper use of handicapped parking.

• 11

  Develop a rapport with investigative reporters who may prove to be a valuable ally and source of information.

• 12

  Ask first for voluntary action when you perceive a problem.

• 13

  Seek simple modifications as an initial effort, but demand full compliance with disability access standards.

• 14

  Be persistent.