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National Disability Rights Network

@ndrnadvocates.bsky.social

6.7K followers 48 following 240 posts

We are the national membership association for the congressionally mandated Protection & Advocacy Systems and Client Assistance Programs. https://linktr.ee/ndrnadvocates

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Jun 11

The federal government is on the brink of cutting the only independent watchdogs that protect people with disabilities.

Tell Congress: Protect P&A funding.
ow.ly/vRW350W7LMc

#HandsoffDisabilityServices #ProtectPnAs

The image reads “What are P&As? The Protection & Advocacy (P&A) network was created after tragedy. In the 1970s, the world got a window view of the abuse and neglect people with disabilities faced in institutions. Congress said: ‘Never again.’ The P&As became a part of this promise – they are the watchdogs that make sure no one suffers in silence.” It also features a black and white image of a young person crouching with their head in their hands.

The image reads “What do P&As do? Everyday, Protection & Advocacy organizations: investigate abuse and neglect claims, help people with disabilities access healthcare, jobs and education, ensure laws protecting people with disabilities are enforced, prevent crises before they happen, and intervene with legal advocacy when they do.” It also features a black and white image of a young woman with a megaphone.

The image reads “Why now? Draft federal budgets, as they stand today, would gut P&A capacity. No more unannounced facility visit. No one to investigate abuse. No one to help people fight for their basic rights. This isn’t hypothetical; it’s a return to horrors we once swore to end.” It also features a black and white image of the Capitol Building. / The image reads “Without the Protection & Advocacy Network, people with disabilities will: be trapped in dangerous institutions, be denied medication, services or education, and face abuse, neglect and even death.” It also features a black and white image of a man who uses a wheelchair with his head in his hands.

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 9h

By getting informed and encouraging others, you contribute to a more engaged and robust democracy. Your vote shapes the future of our community and nation.

Learn how at NationalVoterEducationWeek.org #NationalVoterEducationWeek

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 1d

Let’s navigate voting together this #NationalVoterEducationWeek in 2025!

Visit NationalVoterEducationWeek.org to access the tools you need to vote with confidence.

Graphic from the National Disability Rights Network for National Voter Education Week. Text reads: 'We’re here to get everyone #VoteReady.' Checklist includes: Register to vote, Get to know your ballot, Make a plan to vote, Understand the process, Share with friends & family. Website: NationalVoterEducationWeek.org.

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Reposted by National Disability Rights Network

thearcoftucson.bsky.social @thearcoftucson.bsky.social · 9d

Oct-National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Theme- "Celebrating Value & Talent." People w/ disabilities bring skills/creativity/perspective that strengthen all workplaces. Hiring barriers/bias shut many out. Raise awareness/challenge bias/promote inclusive practices that benefit everyone.

How and Why to Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2025 is a time to celebrate the value and talent of workers with disabilities and to take action. Learn how businesses and advocates can create inclusive...

bit.ly

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 4d

NDRN is gathering stories outlining the voting experiences of people with disabilities so that we can evaluate the obstacles, and advocate for improvements.

If you have ever voted absentee or using a mail-in ballot, we would love to hear from you!

forms.office.com/r/Qgq0irEKqe

This image is blue with a red absentee ballot pictured at the bottom. The text reads: "Absentee and mail-in ballots are vital tools for many voters with disabilities. If they've helped you cast your vote, tell us about it!"

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 9d

We’re proud to see @disabilityrightsor.bsky.social, Oregon's P&A organization, featured in @npr.org's All Things Considered. Coverage features compelling discussion about resisting efforts to institutionalize people experiencing homelessness.

one.npr.org?sharedMediaI...

🔊 Listen Now: Trump's push to institutionalize homeless Americans offers quick fix and sparks fear

All Things Considered on NPR One | 8:00

one.npr.org

National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 10d

Did you know today is
#internationalpodcastday? NDRN’s podcast, National Disability Radio, is available on all your favorite podcast platforms at the link in our bio. #disability #disabilityjustice #disabilityawareness #disabilitypride

National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 11d

The Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) has given millions of students across the United States access to an education. Learn how IDEA came to be, and more about what the law requires.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=89_P...

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) - History & Evolution

YouTube video by U.S. Department of Education

www.youtube.com

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Reposted by National Disability Rights Network

Disability Rights Florida @disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social · 14d

Section 504 was the first U.S. law to ban disability discrimination. Decades later, it remains a cornerstone of access and equality in schools, healthcare, housing, & more. The fight for full participation continues.

Person smiling and raising fists in celebration against a green background. Surrounding text highlights Section 504: passed in 1973, civil rights protection, ensures equal rights, protects access to education, healthcare, housing, and transportation.

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 15d

Disability is not separate from humanity. It's a natural part of the human experience.

Often times, disabilities can be a part of natural genetic variation.

Celebrating our unique experiences makes us stronger, prepares us for a world full of differences, and promotes community and understanding.

Graphic with colorful flowers of different types and colors arranged in two rows. Below the flowers, bold black text reads: “Diversity is natural. Variation is a part of nature – so is disability.”

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 16d

September is Deaf Awareness Month! Learn more from our friends at @disabilityrightsca.bsky.social

ASL Translation - September is D/deaf Awareness Month - 1. Title

YouTube video by DisabilityRightsCA

youtu.be

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 17d

Your story matters.

If you’re part of the I/DD community, a caregiver for someone who is, OR a healthcare provider who's willing to talk Medicaid, join our project and help shape the conversation.

Have a story to share? Submit yours today: forms.office.com/r/LvQKiqpDeg

The text reads: “We are looking for storytellers who fit one of these criteria: members of the intellectual or developmental disability community; caregivers for someone with an intellectual or developmental disability; OR healthcare providers who are comfortable speaking about how changes in Medicaid coverage will impact their practice and patients.” At the bottom right, a photo shows a woman smiling and embracing a young girl with a Developmental Disability.

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · 21d

When oversight fails, abuse follows. The Greer Center story is horrific & must be exposed. We stand with survivors & call for accountability. P&A organizations like the Oklahoma Disability Law Center, Inc are essential.

CW: Abuse, neglect, torture, sexual assault

www.nytimes.com/2025/09/14/u...

Inside a ‘Hell on Earth’ in Oklahoma

www.nytimes.com

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Reposted by National Disability Rights Network

Northwest ADA Center (Region 10 - WA, OR, AK, ID) @northwestada.bsky.social · 23d

September marks National Suicide Prevention Month. Risk of suicide and self-harm can be a symptom of many qualifying disabilities under the ADA. A valuable support service to share with friends and loved ones is the 988 Suicide and Crises Lifeline. bit.ly/3PYwKXq

youtu.be/RIjZmwMXr_w

What is 988 and How Does it Work?

YouTube video by SAMHSA

youtu.be

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Sep 10

Meet voters with disabilities sharing challenges, resilience, and hope ahead of the 2024 election. Watch 'Accessing Democracy' today. #DisabilityJustice #DVRW

www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkhS...

Accessing Democracy

YouTube video by National Disability Rights Network

www.youtube.com

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Sep 9

Voting should be accessible to everyone.

Here are 4 tips to make sure your vote counts this year:

✅ Register early & check your info

✅ Plan your voting method

✅ Bring help if needed

✅ Know your rights

📞 Need help? Call 1-866-OUR-VOTE

The image features a light blue background and dark blue text. There is a red icon featuring a clipboard. The text reads: “Register Early and Verify Information. Voter rolls can get cleaned up, which can lead to people being taken off by mistake. Registering early and double-checking your info gives you time to fix any problems before election day.”

This image features a light blue background and dark blue text. There is a red icon featuring an envelope. The text reads: “Plan your voting method in advance. Will you vote by mail, early, or in-person on election day? Mail voting may be more accessible for some, while early voting can mean shorter lines or less waiting. Planning ahead helps you accommodate for your needs.”

This image features a light blue background and dark blue text. There is a red icon featuring a heart, with one hand helping another. The text reads: “Bring help if needed. Some voters with disabilities may need help marking or casting their ballot. Federal law says you can bring a trusted person to assist you.”

The image features a light blue background and dark blue text. There is a red icon of a fist holding the scales of justice. The text reads: “Know your rights. Not every polling place is fully accessible, even though they should be. Ramps, working accessible machines and clear signage should be available. Knowing this helps you know when to advocate for yourself if something isn’t right.”

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Sep 8

It’s Disability Voting Rights Week!

People with disabilities are a powerful voting bloc, but too often face barriers to the ballot. DVRW is about breaking down barriers, celebrating our community, and building power together. @aapd.com

www.aapd.com/disability-v...

Text at the top of the image asks: “What is Disability Voting Rights Week?” Body text explains: “Disability Voting Rights Week (DVRW) is September 8–12. It’s a national, nonpartisan event led by the American Association of People with Disabilities and REV UP. DVRW is about standing up for the voting rights of people with disabilities, celebrating community, and building power together.”

Text at the top reads: “Why Disability Voting Rights Week?” Body text explains: People with disabilities are a powerful part of the voting population - present in every community and political party. Yet, there are many barriers that make it hard for people with disabilities to vote. DVRW was created by people with disabilities to raise awareness, remove barriers, and make sure community needs are heard.

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Sep 5

Back to school means IEP meetings are around the corner. Families deserve to know their rights and role in the process. Swipe through for IEP basics every parent, caregiver and student with disabilities should learn!

Look up your state P&A: www.ndrn.org/about/ndrn-member-agencies/

#IEP

What is an IEP? Text: “An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a written plan for students with disabilities. It outlines learning goals, supports, and services that help your child succeed in school. The Supreme Court has called the IEP the ‘centerpiece’ of special education.”

Parents & Caregivers Text: “Families should be equal partners in the IEP process. Schools must: Invite you early enough to make plans to attend, schedule at a time/place that works for you, and provide interpreters if needed. Your voice, concerns, and knowledge of your child matter.”

What’s in an IEP? Text lists: Present levels of performance, annual measurable goals, special education & related services, clearly outlined supports and accommodations, and a plan for measuring and reporting progress.

Struggling with your students’ IEP? Text: “Learn more about your state’s education rights by finding your state’s Protection & Advocacy organization at www.ndrn.org/about/ndrn-member-agencies/.

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Sep 5

These aren’t just budget cuts. Our programs are lifelines for people who've had their rights violated.

Without Protection & Advocacy (P&A) organizations, who will protect people with disabilities rights to learn, work, and vote?

Help us stand up for our community by donating:
www.ndrn.org/donate/

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Sep 4

Protection & Advocacy agencies defend people with disabilities from abuse, neglect, and discrimination. Our funding is under attack.

Sign our action alert: secure.everyaction.com/I6avR5LSvUam...

Because our community matters, our futures matter, and our right to live independent lives matters.

This is an image featuring a black and white collage of people representing a wide variety of disabilities, including Blind people who use canes, people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, people with invisible disabilities, people who use mobility aids, people with limb differences, Deaf people who use ASL, people in wheelchairs, and more.

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Sep 3

Did you know that there's a Client Assistance Program (CAP) in every US state and territory?

Learn more about what that means in this video from Disability Rights West Virginia.

Watch now: www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5T6...

What Does the Client Assistance Program (CAP) Do?

YouTube video by Disability Rights of West Virginia

www.youtube.com

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Reposted by National Disability Rights Network

Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) @autisticadvocacy.org · Aug 20

The Department of Labor (DOL) is thinking about making a rule. The rule would stop many domestic workers from getting paid at least minimum wage. The rule would also stop many domestic workers from getting overtime pay. Take action with our plain language guide: autisticadvocacy.org/2025/08/figh...

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Aug 27

50 years ago, Congress promised “never again” after Geraldo Rivera exposed abuse in institutions. The P&A network is that promise in action.

Our funding has been targeted for cuts. Hold congress to their promise: secure.everyaction.com/I6avR5LSvUam....

#protectPnAS #HandsOffDisabilityServices

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Aug 22

The New York Times recently published a deeply concerning story on how federal Medicaid cuts are putting home-and community-based services, which serve as lifelines for people with disabilities, at risk.

www.nytimes.com/2025/08/18/m...

#Olmstead #HandsoffMedicaid #HCBS

[ALT TEXT/IMAGE DESCRIPTION: The image shows two sisters: women with fair skin, dark hair and glasses. One has a long ponytail, the other has short hair. Both sisters are using power wheelchairs. One sister is helping the other sister remove her cardigan.]

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Aug 21

‘Why don’t you just ask nicely?’ Because disability rights aren’t requests — they’re long-standing laws. 📜

Check out this powerful reminder from Disability Rights Montana.

People who don't advocate against entrenched systemic opression have a lot of suggestions. Here's our response to a common one. #disabilityrightsarecivilrights #disabilitytiktok #disability

TikTok video by Disability Rights Montana

www.tiktok.com

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National Disability Rights Network @ndrnadvocates.bsky.social · Aug 20

Taylor taught us to “speak now”… and that’s exactly what self-advocates do every day. 🌟

From knowing your rights to telling your story, these 12 tips can help you advocate for yourself in any setting.

Which tip speaks to you most?

Cover Image:
Text reads: “The Life of a Self-Advocate. Our Top 12 Tips for Self-Advocacy in a Changing Landscape.”

Tip 1: Know Your Rights

Text: Whether it’s housing, employment, education, healthcare, voting, or other areas, the first step is knowing your rights. This helps you speak up when they’re violated.
Alt link included: “Find your state P&A organization at ndrn.org/about/ndrn-member-agencies.”

Tip 2: Speak Up

Text: Practice explaining your needs and experiences. Use small opportunities to build confidence. Role-play with a friend can help.

Tip 3: Use Clear Language

Text: Say what you mean, simply and directly. Avoid complicated words unless they’re relevant to your rights or laws. Writing statements before meetings can help you stay clear and keep records.

Tip 4: Tell Your Story

Text: Your personal experiences are powerful for reducing stigma and inspiring change. Even if stories are discredited, tell them when it feels safe. This helps providers and others understand you better.

Tip 5: Ask Questions

Text: Always ask if you don’t understand something—whether with doctors, providers, or lawyers. You deserve clear information. Take notes, or bring a support person if needed.

Tip 6: Make an Action Plan

Text: Break down goals into smaller steps. Write down what you want, your options, and who can help. If overwhelmed, enlist a friend or family member. If you don’t have supports, contact your state P&A for advocacy resources.

Tip 7: Build Your Support Circle

Text: Identify allies—family, friends, peers, or other advocates. They can encourage you, attend meetings, and back you up. You are not alone, and others may have faced the same struggles.

Tip 8: Stay Involved in Decisions

Text: You deserve to stay in control of your choices, whether about daily life, medical care, or living arrangements. Work with others while keeping your own voice in the process.

Tip 9: Learn from Other Self-Advocates

Text: Join self-advocacy groups or networks to learn strategies and gain confidence. Examples include:

Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)

Self Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE)

Self Advocacy Resource and Technical Assistance Center (STARTAC)

Tip 10: Keep Records and Documents

Text: Save letters, emails, and notes from meetings. Having proof strengthens your advocacy. Keep logs of dates, notes, and evidence like medical records, legal letters, or IEPs.

Tip 11: Practice Emotional Regulation

Text: Advocacy situations can be frustrating. Practicing emotional regulation helps you stay clear and collected, making decision-makers more likely to listen. This takes practice outside high-stress moments.

Tip 12: Don’t Give Up!

Text: Advocacy takes persistence. If one attempt doesn’t work, try again with new strategies or support. It’s normal to feel unseen or unheard in inaccessible systems—but you deserve a world without barriers. Keep fighting.

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