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Disability Rights Florida
@disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
64 followers 28 following 190 posts
Providing free and confidential Protection and Advocacy services statewide to people with disabilities for 40 years. Call 800-342-0823 to request assistance.
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disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
You are not behind. Move at the pace that works for you.

#DisabilityRights #KnowYourRights #DRF
January 10, 2026 at 5:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
We’re taking a short winter break! ❄️ Disability Rights Florida will be closed Dec 25–26 and Jan 1–2. Client Intake will be closed Dec 25th - Jan 4th.
We hope everyone enjoys a safe, restful holiday season. We’ll be back to support Floridians with disabilities as soon as we return.
Holiday hours notice from Disability Rights Florida with decorative pine branches. Listed dates: Dec 25, Dec 26, Jan 1, Jan 2. All marked closed. Logo at bottom.
December 15, 2025 at 5:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Students with disabilities face unfair barriers in college when schools demand new paperwork or give unclear steps for accommodations. The RISE Act would fix this. Urge Congress to act: secure.everyaction.com/JhYaHVVMgEiN...
A group of four college graduates in caps and gowns smile and hold diplomas. Above them, large text reads “Education Starts With Fair Access.” A box at the bottom says “Urge Congress to pass the RISE Act.” The Disability Rights Florida logo appears in the lower right corner.
December 11, 2025 at 5:40 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
🎙️ New Episode: Enough Is Enough

We talk with Prof. Sara Ryan about the crisis of preventable deaths in learning disabilities, the systems that keep failing families, and the urgent need for change.

This is a deeply important conversation.
Listen now: disabilityrightsflorida.org/podcast
Blue and purple graphic for Disability Deep Dive. Text reads “Enough Is Enough: The Crisis of Preventable Deaths in Learning Disabilities” and “New Episode Out Now.” Photos of guest Prof. Sara Ryan and hosts Keith Casebonne and Jodi Beckstine. Podcast platform icons shown.
December 8, 2025 at 2:08 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Disability Rights Florida is proud to see Managing Attorney Leigh Markowitz speak with @fox35orlando about the DOJ’s investigation into SeaWorld’s ban on rollator walkers.
Full interview: www.fox35orlando.com/video/175130
Graphic with Disability Rights Florida logo, headline on DOJ’s SeaWorld investigation, and a split-screen Fox 35 interview showing the anchor and Leigh Markowitz. Text below explains concerns that SeaWorld’s rollator ban may violate the ADA.
December 5, 2025 at 8:00 PM
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Our webinar Service Animals: Your Independence, Your Access, Your Rights is now on YouTube.
Clear guidance on service animal laws, public access, and how people with disabilities can protect their rights.
Watch here: youtu.be/SWcdh5eb40U
Graphic with large text reading Webinar: Service Animals: Your Independence, Your Access, Your Rights. Photos of Marion Gwizdala with a service dog and Barb Page. Text announces that the webinar recording is now on YouTube. Disability Rights Florida logo at the bottom.
December 3, 2025 at 8:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Happy 50th Anniversary, IDEA!
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act was signed in 1975. It was later renamed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. IDEA continues to protect education rights for children with disabilities across the country.
Two students carrying school supplies outside a school building. Text reads: “The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act has turned 50. IDEA protects the rights of children with disabilities to learn and take part in school with their peers.” Logo for Disability Rights Florida.
November 29, 2025 at 4:00 PM
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Honoring the strength and leadership of people with disabilities across Florida this Thanksgiving. Your advocacy and persistence shape stronger communities every day. Wishing you a safe and meaningful holiday. #DisabilityRightsFL #Thanksgiving2025 #AccessForAll
Brown background with a circular border of fall leaves, berries, acorns, apples, and mushrooms surrounding the words “Happy Thanksgiving” in orange and yellow lettering. Below, it says “From your friends at Disability Rights Florida” with the organization’s logo.
November 27, 2025 at 2:00 PM
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Gratitude is important, but it should never silence the need for systems that work.
Our latest blog explores how appreciation and advocacy go hand in hand for people with disabilities in Florida.
Read it here: disabilityrightsflorida.org/blog/entry/w...
Dictionary page with the word justice circled in red. A green banner at the bottom reads Gratitude Is Not a Substitute for Justice, alongside the Disability Rights Florida logo.
November 24, 2025 at 8:30 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Season 2 is here! The first two episodes of our podcast are out now. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or watch on YouTube.
Start listening: disabilityrightsflorida.org/podcast
Watch: www.youtube.com/@DisabilityR...
#DisabilityRights #Podcast #Florida
Podcast episode cover. Text reads: "Little Imperfections, Big Conversations: Peet Montzingo on Growing Up Different." Features a smiling guest, Peet Montzingo, and hosts Keith Casebonne and Jodi Beckstine. Disability Deep Dive logo. Podcast episode cover. Text reads: "Access, Not Applause: Practical Changes Over Feel-Good Clichés with Sarah Todd Hammer." Features a smiling guest, Sarah Todd Hammer, and hosts Keith Casebonne and Jodi Beckstine. Disability Deep Dive logo.
November 20, 2025 at 3:00 PM
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Congress has ended the 43-day shutdown, but many Floridians could still face delays in SNAP, LIHEAP, and health coverage, and another funding deadline looms Jan 30, 2026. Get updates & disability-focused resources: disabilityrightsflorida.org/newsroom
Informational graphic from Disability Rights Florida titled “Update” with a photo of the U.S. Capitol. Text notes Congress ended the 43-day shutdown and says programs are funded into 2026, but Floridians may still see delays in SNAP, LIHEAP, and other benefits.
November 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM
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Join our free Service Animals Webinar on Nov 19, 2025, 11 a.m.–12 noon (ET) to learn your rights and responsibilities under the law. Register now: disabilityrightsflorida.org/resources/se...
Alt text: “Live Webinar – Service Animals: Your Independence, Your Access, Your Rights.” Photos of Marion Gwizdala, President/CEO of Advocates for Service Animal Partners, Inc., and Barb Page, Sr. Advocate-Investigator, Disability Rights Florida. November 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET.
November 18, 2025 at 6:30 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Alice Wong was a leader who expanded understanding of disability rights and self advocacy. Her passing is a significant loss. Her work continues to guide advocates today. Learn more about her legacy: disabilityvisibilityproject.com/
Alt text: Black and white memorial graphic featuring Alice Wong seated in her power wheelchair with her ventilator. Text reads “Rest in Peace” with her name, dates, and a short tribute. Disability Rights Florida logo appears at the bottom.
November 15, 2025 at 8:37 PM
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When benefits pause, community answers the call. Learn where to find food, how to ask for accessible help, and how you can support neighbors during the shutdown.

Read the full story and share to reach a neighbor in need: disabilityrightsflorida.org/blog/entry/w...
A woman in a blue shirt stands holding a box of groceries, including fruit and canned goods, with the text “When the System Fails, Who Shows Up?” and the Disability Rights Florida logo. Small images below show people distributing food and offering help.
November 14, 2025 at 6:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Join our free Service Animals Webinar on Nov 19, 2025, 11 a.m.–12 noon (ET) to learn your rights and responsibilities under the law. Register now: disabilityrightsflorida.org/resources/se...
Alt text: “Live Webinar – Service Animals: Your Independence, Your Access, Your Rights.” Photos of Marion Gwizdala, President/CEO of Advocates for Service Animal Partners, Inc., and Barb Page, Sr. Advocate-Investigator, Disability Rights Florida. November 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET.
November 12, 2025 at 6:30 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Today we honor all who served. Veterans with disabilities have strengthened our nation through courage, service, and sacrifice. As we reflect on their impact, let’s continue building communities where every veteran has access, respect, and opportunity.
Illustration of diverse veterans in military uniforms standing in front of an American flag. Text reads, “Honoring All Who Served. With Deepest Gratitude for your Courage and Sacrifice.” Disability Rights Florida logo at the bottom.
November 11, 2025 at 3:01 PM
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Osceola County families, students, and school staff - Has a change to special ed placement, supports, or transportation affected your student? Share your story with Disability Rights Florida: disabilityrightsflorida.org/newsroom/sto...
"Disability Rights Florida graphic asking Osceola County families to share how recent changes in special education, classroom models, or transportation have affected students. Features a girl with Down syndrome holding books in a library."
November 8, 2025 at 5:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Join our free Service Animals Webinar on Nov 19, 2025, 11 a.m.–12 noon (ET) to learn your rights and responsibilities under the law. Register now: disabilityrightsflorida.org/resources/se...
Alt text: “Live Webinar – Service Animals: Your Independence, Your Access, Your Rights.” Photos of Marion Gwizdala, President/CEO of Advocates for Service Animal Partners, Inc., and Barb Page, Sr. Advocate-Investigator, Disability Rights Florida. November 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET.
November 5, 2025 at 6:30 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
What are you really putting on this Halloween? A costume, or a set of assumptions? It’s time to unmask ableism. Let’s rethink who gets left out, who gets turned into a punchline, and what real welcome looks like.
Graphic with orange and white text on a black background. Title reads “Unmasking Ableism.” Subtext explains how Halloween invites reflection on what we call “normal” and reveals how society hides barriers behind celebration. Disability Rights Florida logo. Illustration of two people frightened on a couch as a ghostly figure appears behind them. Text reads, “Disabled bodies and minds are too often portrayed as frightening,” addressing harmful horror stereotypes. Disability Rights Florida logo. Illustration of an invisible person wearing a hat, glasses, and coat. Text discusses how some disabilities are unseen, like chronic illness and neurodivergence, emphasizing inclusive design. Disability Rights Florida logo. Illustration of a person in a white straitjacket. Text warns against “disability costumes,” saying disability isn’t a role but an identity deserving respect. Disability Rights Florida logo.
October 31, 2025 at 4:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Update: Federal shutdown and essential benefits
Week four of the shutdown is creating real risks for many people with disabilities and their families. Even if Congress reaches a deal soon, November benefits may be delayed.

Read our newsroom update: disabilityrightsflorida.org/newsroom/sto...
Graphic with navy header text Government Shutdown Update and a question mark icon. Photo of the U.S. Capitol with a red sign that says Sorry, we’re closed. Disability Rights Florida logo in the lower right.
October 30, 2025 at 3:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Happy National Cat Day from our team!

Cats are natural advocates. They don't apologize for needing specific accommodations like the quiet corner, the predictable routine, the perfectly positioned resting spot.

Sound familiar? That's disability justice.
A collage of eight cats: ginger, white fluff, tabby by window, white cat yawning, white cat snuggling, gray-and-white sleeper, brown tabby lounging, and another gray-and-white cat napping. Center text: “DRF KITTIES” with a paw print. Eight cats: two longhairs facing each other outside, a fluffy Siamese, black-and-white cat on a blue blanket, peach cat in window, tuxedo cat on a chair, black-and-white cats lounging, and a tortoiseshell resting. Center: “DRF KITTIES” and paw logo. Eight cats: tabby in profile, tabby cuddled with smiling human, gray-and-white cat on porch, tuxedo cat staring, curled white-and-brown cat, fluffy black cat on deck, gray-striped cat outdoors, and tabby with teal collar. “DRF KITTIES” logo centered. Eight cats: tortie in pink bed, tabby in unicorn hoodie, fluffy brown tabby, cream cat outside, calico on chair, calico with green eyes, wide-eyed gray-and-white cat, and gray kitten asleep. Center: “DRF KITTIES” with paw icon.
October 29, 2025 at 7:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Join our free Service Animals Webinar on Nov 19, 2025, 11 a.m.–12 noon (ET) to learn your rights and responsibilities under the law. Register now: disabilityrightsflorida.org/resources/se...
Alt text: “Live Webinar – Service Animals: Your Independence, Your Access, Your Rights.” Photos of Marion Gwizdala, President/CEO of Advocates for Service Animal Partners, Inc., and Barb Page, Sr. Advocate-Investigator, Disability Rights Florida. November 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET.
October 28, 2025 at 5:30 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
Being hired is just the beginning. Real progress happens when disabled employees are heard, respected, and empowered to lead. Learn how listening to disabled voices strengthens workplaces for everyone.
Read our blog at: disabilityrightsflorida.org/blog/entry/n...
Two people sit at a desk in discussion with papers and a screen in the background. Text reads “Not Just Hired, Heard: The Value of Disabled Voices at Work.” Below are small images of people with disabilities in different workplaces. Disability Rights Florida logo appears at top.
October 27, 2025 at 4:00 PM
disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social
New resource: a free wallet card for people with brain injuries, created with Brain Injury Florida.
It helps explain symptoms, communication needs, and ADA rights during emergencies.
Learn more and get your card here: disabilityrightsflorida.org/publications...
A hand holds a white wallet card that reads, “Notice: I have a medically documented acquired brain injury. Please read this card.” Below are two unfolded cards showing emergency contact, symptoms, and accommodation info on a yellow background with the Disability Rights Florida logo.
October 24, 2025 at 6:00 PM
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Season 2 of Disability Deep Dive drops Nov 6!
New guests. Bigger conversations. And now, it’s a video podcast.
Because disability isn’t a single story. It’s part of every story.
Watch or listen wherever you get your podcasts.
#DisabilityDeepDive #Podcast #DisabilityRightsFlorida
October 23, 2025 at 4:01 PM