Disability Rights Florida

?? Brain injuries can create challenges in education, employment, and independent living, but the right support can remove barriers. ?? Rehabilitation and medical care aid recovery. ?? Workplace accommodations create opportunities. ?? Cognitive and memory support improves independence. ?? Accessible housing and transportation expand possibilities. On Brain Injury Awareness Day, let’s focus on improving access to these essential resources. Stronger policies and advocacy make a real difference. #BrainInjuryAwareness #SupportMatters #AccessForAll #DisabilityRights

?? March 12, 1990 – A pivotal moment in the history of disability rights. On this day, numerous disability rights activists left their wheelchairs and mobility aids to crawl up the steps of the U.S. Capitol, demanding that lawmakers take action. Their courage and determination played a crucial role in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) just months later. ?? Why It Remains Significant Today: ??? The fight for accessibility and rights continues. ?? Advocacy and direct action are essential for driving change. ?? Barriers still exist, but we must persist in our efforts. The Capitol Crawl was a turning point, yet there is still much work to be done. We honor the brave activists who paved the way by continuing to advocate for accessibility, independence, and equal opportunities for everyone. ?? Read more about the Capitol Crawl & its impact: ?? https://bit.ly/48IvqBv ?? What does the ADA mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments! #CapitolCrawl #ADA35 #DisabilityRights #AccessForAll #AdvocacyMatters Photos used by permission. Tom Olin Collection. University of Toledo Libraries.

Advocacy shapes policy. That’s why Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day at the Capitol is such a vital event. Each year, the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) brings together self-advocates, families, and organizations to engage directly with lawmakers on critical issues like healthcare, employment, and housing. ?? Advocacy – Direct conversations with policymakers about the needs of people with developmental disabilities. ?? Resource Sharing – Organizations highlight services and programs that support independent living. ?? Recognition – Honoring outstanding self-advocates and family leaders making a difference. Policy change starts with action. Events like this ensure that real voices are heard where decisions are made. ?? Want to learn more about this impactful event? Visit: https://bit.ly/41vOEJW #DDAwareness #PolicyChange #AdvocacyMatters #DisabilityRights #AccessForAll

?? Assistive Technology: A Game-Changer for Everyday Life! For many people, assistive technology (AT) is the key to independence. Whether it’s a wheelchair, screen reader, or voice-activated home system, AT makes daily tasks easier and more efficient. Yet, many struggle to access these essential tools due to high costs, insurance limitations, and lack of awareness. The good news? There are resources and advocacy efforts working to change that. ?? In our latest blog, we cover: ? What assistive technology is & how it helps ? Common barriers and ways to overcome them ? Key laws that support AT access ? Resources to help cover costs ?? Technology should work for everyone. Learn how AT is making life better and how you can take action! Read more here ?? https://bit.ly/4h7btIv ?? Know someone who could benefit? Share this post! #AssistiveTech #TechnologyForAll #SmartSolutions #EverydayAccessibility

?? Marking Another Year of Impact with the PAAT Program! The Protection & Advocacy for Assistive Technology (PAAT) Program helps ensure that people with disabilities can access the technology they need to succeed in work, education, and daily life. From mobility aids to communication devices, PAAT works to: ? Remove barriers to assistive technology ? Advocate for policies that ensure fair access ? Empower individuals with the tools they need to thrive Yet, many still struggle to obtain the right devices due to cost, policy gaps, or lack of awareness. Advocacy and action are critical to making assistive technology accessible to all who need it. ?? What assistive technology has made a difference in your life or work? Let’s recognize the progress and discuss what’s next! #PAATAnniversary #AssistiveTechnology #AccessMatters #DisabilityAdvocacy #TechnologyForAll

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Our 2025 Legislative Priorities Are Here! At Disability Rights Florida, we work to protect and defend the rights of people with disabilities across the state. As Florida’s federally mandated Protection & Advocacy (P&A) system, we provide free and confidential legal and advocacy services to ensure that people with disabilities can live, work, and thrive in their communities. Each year, we advocate on issues that impact the daily lives of Floridians with disabilities. As we prepare for the 2025 legislative session, we’re focusing on key priorities that affect access to services, programs, and protections. ?? Want to learn more? We’ve created a Plain Language version so that everyone can easily understand what’s at stake. ?? Check out our 2025 priorities here: https://bit.ly/3mPVOE8 #DisabilityRights #FloridaLegislation #AdvocacyForAll #AccessForAll

The final webinar in our series, "Navigating Medicaid Waivers and Fair Hearings," is now available! Join us as we dive into Florida’s Medicaid Long-Term Care Waiver Application Process and Waitlist. ?? Watch it on our website: https://bit.ly/3DxdyzL #Medicaid #Webinar #LongTermCare #Florida

Assistive Technology (AT) transforms lives. On National Assistive Technology Awareness Day, we recognize the vital role of AT in workplaces, education, and daily life—empowering people to navigate the world with greater independence. ?? AT expands access to employment ?? AT improves communication ?? AT drives innovation across industries Yet, too many people still face challenges in accessing the tools they need—whether due to cost, availability, or lack of awareness. It’s time to ensure AT is prioritized, funded, and widely accessible. ?? How has assistive technology supported your professional or personal journey? Share your insights below. ?? #AssistiveTechnology #AccessibilityMatters #TechForAll #Innovation #NationalAssistiveTechnologyAwarenessDay

?? 1 in 6 children in the U.S. has a developmental disability. When children receive early healthcare, specialized education, and community support, they have more opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive. Yet, too many families still struggle to access the services they need. ? Timely access to services makes a difference ? Early interventions lead to better long-term outcomes ? Every child should have the support to reach their potential Policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, and advocates all play a role in ensuring children and families receive the resources they deserve. ?? What programs or services have been impactful in your experience? Let’s discuss in the comments. ?? #DDAM2024 #DevelopmentalDisabilities #EarlyIntervention #HealthcareAccess #EducationForAll #SupportForFamilies