#AdvocacyMatters: Election Resources Round Up

Sometimes election day can feel like boating on rough waters, but we want your voting experience to be nothing but smooth sailing. Read more...

March 15, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Explaining and Understanding

Earlier this year, we began hosting sessions with members of the Ohio legislature and their staff members to better understand our organization and the work that we do. Read more...

March 8, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Your Right, Your Vote

With less than three weeks to go until Ohio’s March 19th primary election, the path to a successful voting experience starts now! Read more...

March 1, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: En Español

When you want to reach communities where they are, the best way to do that is to make sure those communities feel comfortable. Read more...

February 23, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Withholding Opportunities, Denying Transparency

"We do not condone ODEW’s handling of the situation and working behind closed doors to halt and reconsider the recommendation the agency itself endorsed." Read more...

February 16, 2024Read More

ALERT: DRO Files Due Process Complaint Against Ohio Department of Education and Workforce

The complaint outlines how ODEW, working with Warren County ESC, and the involved school districts violated state complaint procedures, the Individual with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA), and Ohio’s established operating standards for children with disabilities. Read more...

February 14, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Another Chance to be Heard

Civic engagement is a critical component to achieving an equitable society. Read more...

February 9, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: A Town Hall for All

We are holding firm to what has worked in our advocacy - meeting disabled Ohioans where they are. Read more...

February 2, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Bringing Awareness to Power

State legislation directly impacts our efforts to provide resources and support for Ohioans with disabilities. By connecting with legislators, we can increase awareness of our advocacy work, and in turn, reach individuals in communities that are otherwise limited in disability rights-related resources. Read more...

January 26, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Reflecting Our Community

Ohio - all 40,800 square miles of it - is incredibly diverse. Read more...

January 19, 2024Read More

NEWS: Court Awards Back Pay to Ohioans with Disabilities Paid Lower Wages

A federal judge this month affirmed a 2016 federal administrative finding that three Ohioans with disabilities should get back pay and damages to make up for the subminimum wage they were paid in a sheltered workshop. Read more...

January 18, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Worthy of a Fair Wage

We cannot approach true equity in a society where one’s disability can be used to deny them a fair wage. Read more...

January 12, 2024Read More

Court Ruling Affirms Decision Awarding Back Pay and Liquidated Damages to Individuals Who Were Unlawfully Paid Less Than Minimum Wage

"This court action is a clear victory for those working to reverse subminimum wage, and affirms our belief that having a disability does not make one unworthy of fair pay." Read more...

January 9, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Turn The Page

As we prepare to flip our calendars to a new year, it’s important that we pause, reflect, and appreciate the advocacy that carried us through 2023. Read more...

December 22, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Count Us In

Communities found at the fringe of society are often kept there by a lack of understanding of their needs and awareness of their existence. Read more...

December 15, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Dreaming of an Equitable Tomorrow

To welcome the new year, we are hoping to raise $24,000 before the calendar turns over. Even a small donation from you, if you’re able, can help us make these dreams of an equitable tomorrow a reality. Read more...

December 8, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Connecting to Communities

Our advocacy and resources are only effective when they reach those who need them. Read more...

December 1, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Calling For Change

This past Monday we stood with our allies outside Columbus City Council and called for the city’s leaders to deliver on their promises. Read more...

November 17, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Envisioning Equity

As we race towards the end of another year, we’re pausing to reflect and focus on the core of our mission: Envisioning Equity. Read more...

November 9, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: One Call Away

Election day, and the days right before it, can be a stressful time for Ohioans with disabilities. In Ohio, new voter ID laws, changes to curbside voting, and shortened absentee ballot timelines may cause significant barriers for voters in our state. We want to take some time today to lay... Read more...

November 3, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Your Right, Your Vote

A truly equitable society cannot be achieved without the opportunity to vote being accessible to every individual. Read more...

October 27, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Engaging Our Community

As only the second ever person in her role, our new Community Engagement Coordinator (CEC), Brittanie Maddox, has hit the ground running. Read more...

October 20, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Celebrating Opportunities

October is recognized as Disability Employment Empowerment Month, a time to celebrate “the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities past and present and showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees.” Read more...

October 13, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: A Refreshed Roadmap

Our work is most effective when it’s shaped and informed by the real, lived experiences of Ohioans with disabilities. Read more...

October 6, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: CAP Celebrates

Earlier this week, one of our most impactful programs hit its golden anniversary " 50 years. Read more...

September 29, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Modernizing a Legacy

This summer, the US Department of Health and Human Services announced plans to update section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Read more...

September 22, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Rubber Ducks, Real Impact

More importantly, this event reinforced our commitment to reach directly into and engage with the communities we serve. Read more...

September 15, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: From The Starting Line

In just a few days, hundreds of rubber ducks will be turned loose on the mighty Muskingum River near Marietta, bobbing their way down to the Ohio River. Read more...

September 8, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Independence through Employment

Independence is a key component of an equitable society, and only when people have access to the tools and resources necessary to live, work, learn, and go where and how they choose can true equity come into focus. Read more...

September 1, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Making Connections

Our advocacy, our support, and our resources are only effective when they reach the communities and individuals who need them. Read more...

August 18, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Ferocity

Being fierce advocates - whether in working with an individual client or working on policy initiatives that impact every disabled Ohioan - can be challenging, frustrating, and ultimately rewarding. Read more...

August 11, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Your Right, Your Vote

Voting is just one of many ways to advocate for a better future for us all. Vote today for a better tomorrow! Read more...

August 4, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Diving In

With a mission and ambitions that can often outpace our federal funding, creativity is key in raising the funds necessary to amplify our work and expand our reach across the state. Read more...

July 28, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: What Students Deserve

These completely free workshops are designed to help guardians and educators come to a deeper understanding of how they can make school best for their children and students. Each session will be held online and will feature a Q&A segment. Read more...

July 21, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Informing, Improving

Over the last several weeks, we’ve been collecting information from all across Ohio through our annual Goals & Objectives survey. Read more...

July 14, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Proud

July is Disability Pride Month " a time to celebrate the rights and achievements of disabled people; aiming to shift the narrative around disabilities from one of social stigma and ableist misconceptions to one of pride, acceptance, empowerment, and self-advocacy. July was chosen to align with the anniversary of the... Read more...

July 7, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Your Right, Your Vote

A truly equitable society for people with disabilities won’t be possible until they have equal access and opportunities to participate in civil engagement. Read more...

June 30, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: How Free?

“Freedom” - the word - is something that is found everywhere, especially this time of year. From patriotic messages in the media to star-spangled t-shirts and bumper stickers, “freedom” as a part of our national brand is inescapable. Read more...

June 23, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Rooted in the Real

Our work is rooted in the real, lived experiences of disabled Ohioans across the state and throughout the communities we serve. Read more...

June 16, 2023Read More

DRO Launches 2024 Goals & Objectives Survey

Disability Rights Ohio has launched their 2024 Goals and Objectives Survey, gathering input and information that will inform, improve, and shape the organization's work in the coming year. Read more...

June 15, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Connecting Truth to Power

In the month of May alone, Alicia hosted three in person events and two virtual events for Dear Ohio Legislators events all around the state, where over 70 people were present to write to their legislators and come together in community action. Read more...

June 2, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: From The Top

Our mission, our vision, and our drive is rooted in the real, lived experiences of disabled Ohioans. Read more...

May 26, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Make Support a Career

Change never happens without people brave enough to act, and here at Disability Rights Ohio, we are committed to empowering people to make a difference. We have three exciting positions open for passionate, driven people who want to take a step in the direction of a fulfilling vision. Read more...

May 19, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: A More Complete Picture

For our vision to ultimately become a reality, our work must remain rooted in the real, lived experiences of people with disabilities across Ohio. Read more...

May 12, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Small Victories, Senate Strides

In the Senate, you still have time to testify. On May 11th, the Senate Medicaid Committee is planning on accepting testimony. Even though the dates are unconfirmed, we anticipate the Senate Health Committee will be accepting public testimony on May 10th or 11th. Read more...

May 5, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Plan Your Vote

We’ve been trying to reach you about your….voting rights! Ohio’s newest election law, HB 458, makes voting harder for many Ohioans, especially those with disabilities. This new law limits they kind of ID you can use to vote and changed important deadlines for absentee voting. These changes create additional barriers... Read more...

April 28, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Elevated and Empowered

“Transformative work often happens in incremental moments.” Read more...

April 21, 2023Read More

Elevated and Empowered: Our 2022 Annual Report

With a sweeping new set of values created to best represent who we are and what we stand for, the organization is poised to be more effective and more impactful in addressing the needs of Ohioans with disabilities. Read more...

April 19, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Change Wages, Change Lives

Throughout this budget season, we rallied alongside disabled advocates in our community to highlight the need for lawmakers to #BudgetWithCare. The outpouring of support from the Ohio disability community and their supporters has created a united front calling for real solutions to the direct care workforce crisis. Read more...

April 14, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: New Vision, Familiar Face

While our work is informed and shaped though surveys and input from the communities we serve, it only comes about through the expertise and investment of our team. Read more...

April 7, 2023Read More

DRO Names Suzanne Musleh Legal Advocacy Director

Musleh, a veteran attorney, will lead a team of professionals dedicated to ensuring the highest quality legal representation for Ohioans with disabilities Read more...

April 5, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Doing More

Our work comes about in many ways. Read more...

March 31, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: More Than an Icon

“Until institutions were forced to accommodate us, we would remain locked out and invisible. And as long as we were locked out and invisible, no one would see our true force and would dismiss us.” Read more...

March 24, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Budgeting with Care

“Take four seconds and put your hand over your chest. Can you feel your heart beating? As I mentioned before, disability is only community you can join at any time. We too, those with disabilities, are human beings with a heartbeat, and without your investment in provider wages more people... Read more...

March 17, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: The Color of Justice

Discussing these issues is often uncomfortable, quieting conversations long before meaningful solutions can be identified. Read more...

March 10, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Planning to be heard

Access to the democratic process " where ballots are counted and voices are heard " is a foundational step in creating a truly equitable society. While entering a voting booth and casting a ballot seems like a simple task, the rules, restrictions, and red tape of bureaucracy far too often... Read more...

March 3, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Sharing Your Stories

Over the last year we have shared with you stories from all over Ohio, and the number of people affected by this crisis continues to go up. Read more...

February 24, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Equal Participants?

Equity - true equity - for people with disabilities will only be possible when they are fully included and equal participants in elections and policy. Read more...

February 17, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: An Investment in Change

In encounters with police, the intersection of race and disability all too often ends in tragedy. Read more...

February 10, 2023Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Jynette's Story

So, now I am at my wits end with all of this, and I don’t know what to do. I don’t receive the care I need, or the help to be able to figure it all out. Read more...

February 8, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Care in Crisis

Without direct care, people are at risk of serious injury, death, or being forced into institutional settings. Read more...

February 3, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Opportunities Withheld

In any set of circumstances, navigating the systems and procedures of special education can be an overwhelming experience. Read more...

January 27, 2023Read More

Investigation Finds Multiple Violations of Special Education Law at Warren County Educational Services Center

New report cites numerous violations of the rights of students at the county’s Educational Service Center and recommends comprehensive corrective measures Read more...

January 25, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Equipping Advocates

Equipping advocates to be their most effective amplifies our shared ideals, bringing the vision of an equitable society one step closer to reality. Read more...

January 20, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Building Bridges

Throughout the year, some of our most impactful events are the ones that further connect the Ohio disability community with their legislators. Read more...

January 13, 2023Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: 2022 Wrapped

As we move forward into 2023, we can’t wait to see what new genres of disability justice we have in store. Read more...

December 16, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Victory for One, Victory for All

Education should be for everyone, including disabled Ohioans like Hunter. Our #AdvocacyMatters to the Hunters of the world, who can better fight for their individual needs in light of this decision. Read more...

December 9, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: On Connecting and Understanding

Continuing to create opportunities like these will help build relationships, successfully advocate, and achieve a deeper level of understanding… impacting and informing policy, and shaping a more equitable future. #AdvocacyMatters Read more...

December 2, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Vicki's Story

Ultimately, Vicki asks for her situation to not go unnoticed and for those in charge to address the problems within the current care system and workforce crisis. “I’d be fine if I got the help I was supposed to get...they need to listen to what I want, what I need,”... Read more...

November 30, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: More to be thankful for

With the giving season in full swing, we’re proud of all that we’ve accomplished this year. Read more...

November 18, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Maria's Story

I have been my own advocate, as well as an advocate for individuals with disabilities across the nation, my entire life. If these programs were not in place, individuals with disabilities would be forced into institutions with no chance of ever leading a fulfilling life. Read more...

November 17, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Virtual barriers, Real-world Implications

In the wake of billionaire Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter, members of the company’s Accessibility Experience and Human Rights teams reported that both had been disbanded and their employees fired. Read more...

November 11, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Policing Alternatives and Disability Justice

"Police violence disproportionately impacts individuals who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color, and we know that a person’s disability, particularly a psychiatric disability, also increases the likelihood of harm occurring." Read more...

November 4, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Marcus and Cindy

Cindy is defeated and depressed and feels that she has been put in a room to die, all because of a lack of home health aides and a lack of aides in the nursing home itself. I think the entire system for elderly care is broken. Read more...

November 2, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Our Duty

Recently, Kyle and DRO Legal Advocacy Director Kevin Truitt joined the Ohio DD Talks Podcast to discuss voter outreach and share information and resources on the upcoming November 8th election, for which early voting has already begun. Read more...

October 28, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Our State, Our Mission

The work that we do… our advocacy, our resources, our outreach… touches every corner of Ohio: From the shores of Lake Erie to the banks of the Ohio River, across the broad plains and through the rolling hills. Read more...

October 21, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Plan Your Vote

A truly equitable society cannot be achieved without the opportunity to vote being accessible to every individual Read more...

October 14, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Allie's Perspective

Despite the challenges of the direct care work crisis, Allie feels lucky: she recognizes her privilege compared to others with less support, access, or income. Read more...

October 12, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Coming into focus

The breadth and depth of our work can make it difficult at times to explain exactly what Disability Rights Ohio does. Read more...

October 7, 2022Read More

Disability Rights Ohio adopts new Mission, Vision, and Values

The Disability Rights Ohio Board of Directors recently approved and adopted new mission, vision, and values statements. Read more...

October 6, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Allie's Story

Domestic Violence Survivors with disabilities face enormous hurdles to access care. Read more...

October 5, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Listening and Learning

Our work is most effective when it’s shaped and informed by the real, lived experiences of Ohioans with disabilities. Read more...

September 30, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Julie's Story

“The staffing crisis didn’t stop, it’s worse now that we’re not in service.” Read more...

September 28, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Education for Everyone

To support Ohio parents, DRO will continue to provide Special Education Legal Clinics in partnership with Albeit-Weiker LLP and the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities. Read more...

September 23, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: BC's story

“My goal was for him to live independently, be employed, and have community connections... And that has not worked out very well. It’s been a very long road.” Read more...

September 21, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: On Location

Connecting directly with the communities we serve is the only way for our bold vision to come to life… rooted in the real, lived experiences of people with disabilities across Ohio. Read more...

September 16, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Real Wages for Real Work

The rights enjoyed by the majority should be enjoyed by all… and one of these most basic rights is receiving a fair wage for work completed. Read more...

September 9, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Staying Connected

Our work is only effective if firmly rooted in the realities and lived experiences of the communities we serve. Read more...

September 2, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Latisha's Story

Today, Latisha receives daily living, transportation, and financial support from her direct care workers. In order to receive all the care she needs, there must be available staff that can assist her. She enjoys living independently because it offers her the freedom to go where she wants. Moreover, it allows... Read more...

September 1, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Face to Face

In the complex world of advocacy, one of the biggest challenges can be making direct connections with those who wield the power to shape policy. Read more...

August 26, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Luke and Heather

Even if Luke was able to get his 5 hours of care consistently covered, Heather feels it wouldn’t be enough. Heather’s relentless advocacy has increased Luke’s care to 10 hours per week, but she feels frustrated that the officials who are determining what Luke needs are not the people that... Read more...

August 25, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Making A Splash

Connecting directly with communities across Ohio is a pivotal part of bringing our mission to life. Read more...

August 19, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Christine's Story

Currently, she has not had an aide since March 2022. “Basically, my mom has been my aide… and it’s really hard on her because she is in her sixties. It is not easy for her to do this stuff and she basically has to do it all by herself,” notes Christine. Read more...

August 15, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: [ to OVERCOME ]

“Being able to turn the page on an incredibly challenging year and still share success stories like these is a remarkable accomplishment,” Sjoberg continues. “With the promise of a new year, new advocacy, and new challenges ahead, we can’t wait to see what’s in store.” Read more...

August 12, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: Cara and Corey

Cara wishes that people understood the impact of having direct care workers coming and going on the people they are caring for as well as their families. She describes it as a strange experience to have someone constantly in your home that you don’t know. She also highlights the impact... Read more...

August 8, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Ask An Advocate

Oftentimes, access to story-sharing takes a route not travelable by disabled advocates, leaving a space with stories left untold. With inspiration from recorded oral history like the stories of Clevelanders captured by John Leoni, and produced by Linking Employment Abilities and Potential (LEAP), Alexia set forward with a specific vision... Read more...

August 5, 2022Read More

Update: Notice of Data Breach

We are writing to tell you about a data security breach with the e-mail system at Disability Rights Ohio. The data security breach may have included your personal information. DRO takes the protection and proper use of your information very seriously. We are contacting you to explain what happened and... Read more...

August 1, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Everyone Deserves Care

Equal access to care is a critical and essential component of a truly equitable society. Read more...

July 29, 2022Read More

#EveryoneDeservesCare: JW's Story

Without intentional change, JW and others like her will continue to lose their freedom, including their ability to live independent and productive lives. JW wants to live like every other adult. “I enjoy doing what every other 35-year-old does. I just need a bit of help.” Read more...

July 27, 2022Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: A Vision of Change

“This moment demands more. It requires a bold vision that truly invests in evidence-based interventions that address the demands of our community.” Read more...

July 22, 2022Read More

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