#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
#EveryoneDeservesCare: Daniella and Roxanne
“To have a field where there are no benefits and no good compensation and to expect that people will work in that field and do a good job is a huge hindrance to both the people with disabilities and the people who want to help people with disabilities,” Read more...
July 21, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Page by page
Our mission of a truly equitable society requires accessibility as a foundational principle, and this is an area we are constantly striving to improve. Read more...
July 15, 2022Read More
#EveryoneDeservesCare: LC's story
“A lot of people take for granted that they have a 26-year-old, they’re good to go, right? They can go to church. They can go to the store. They can maintain their employment. Those are luxuries for me.” Read more...
July 13, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Lending a Paw
Our mission of a truly equitable society can only begin to be realized with the understanding that the work is much, much bigger than us. Read more...
July 8, 2022Read More
#EveryoneDeservesCare: This Is Us
As you can see, my 39 years have been challenging, but none of it prepared me for the last two years. Read more...
July 6, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Dangerous Steps Backwards
Regardless of one’s personal views on abortion, the overturning of Roe was a dangerous attack on rights, equity and healthcare access. Read more...
July 1, 2022Read More
Disability Rights Ohio Condemns Supreme Court's Rollback of Abortion Rights
Disability Rights Ohio condemns in the strongest way last week’s Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, restricting reproductive freedom and jeopardizing health care options for people across the country. Read more...
June 30, 2022Read More
#EveryoneDeservesCare: Cynthia's Story
“It was just like a whole new world. I was on a vacation that didn’t stop." Read more...
June 29, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: A Path of Opportunities
The availability of programs and services alone isn’t enough to move us forward… for only through their accessibility can outcomes toward equity be achieved. Read more...
June 24, 2022Read More
#EveryoneDeservesCare: Robert's Story
“I like to think that in a better world, not a perfect world, in a better world, I could get enough care to take care of my medical needs and still be able to work at least part time, if nothing else, from home.” Read more...
June 22, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Celebrating Juneteenth
Today - because our #AdvocacyMatters - we elevate Shari Cooper’s blog, The Power of Juneteenth. Read more...
June 17, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Making Connections
In a society where barriers sprout up between marginalized communities and those in power - both by indifference and by design - it can be incredibly difficult to get the ear and the attention of those able to make changes. Read more...
June 10, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Broadening Our Impact
The journey to effective advocacy is often fraught with landmines and barriers for many oppressed communities. Read more...
June 3, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: In The Aftermath
In the face of tragedy we must elevate ourselves beyond the convenient excuses, and instead relentlessly pursue truth. Read more...
May 27, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: More Than A Guide
Equity in our communities and across our state cannot be achieved until each person has access to the tools and information they need to be successful. Read more...
May 20, 2022Read More
DRO releases "RISE UP," a resource guide for young adults with disabilities
Resources for young adults with disabilities transitioning to adulthood are often confusing or simply non-existent. This new resource aims to provide more practical advice to young people. Read more...
May 18, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: The Next Generation of Advocates
Movement towards a truly equitable society will only carry forward if our focus rests not just on today’s challenges, but also on preparing for those ahead. Read more...
May 13, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Oversight and Oversteps
The ongoing battle towards a fair and equitable society is complex, and often overwhelming. Simply advocating and pushing for improved access and service systems isn’t enough, as there are active efforts to undermine the victories that have already been secured. Read more...
May 6, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Barriers at the Ballot Box
Our vision of a truly equitable society can only become reality once all people - including those with disabilities - have free and fair access to the election process. Read more...
April 29, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: An unusual approach
These events can bridge the gap between our organization and the communities we serve, allowing all to enjoy a shared sense of purpose and joy. Read more...
April 22, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Pleas for change
Someone amid a mental health crisis far too often falls victim to dangerous, ablest stigmas… in many cases not just delaying the necessary help, but impeding it. Read more...
April 15, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Opportunity Knocks
Our advocacy is most effective when we are able to bring it directly into the communities we serve. By connecting on a local level with our partners and allies, we can most effectively reach broader audiences with new resources, new tools, and new opportunities. Read more...
April 8, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Ballot Barriers
Our vision of a truly equitable society will only be possible when people with disabilities are in the rooms where decisions are being made… from the board room to the voting booth. Read more...
April 1, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Leading the Way
Those who pave the way often create better opportunities not just for themselves, but also for those who come behind them. Read more...
March 25, 2022Read More
#AdvocacyMatters: Become Certified in Mental Health First Aid
First aid training in mental health helps participants learn to assess for risk of self-harm, listen nonjudgmentally, and encourage the appropriate professional help. It also provides needed connection to local providers, community services and national resources available for support. Read more...
March 18, 2022Read More
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