Disability Rights Ohio

#AdvocacyMatters: Plan Your Vote

Every election matters, and every vote has the power to shape the future of our community. Read more...

April 18, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Keeping Up and Moving Forward

Our vision of a truly equitable Ohio is rooted in improving opportunities and outcomes for young people with disabilities. Read more...

April 11, 2025Read More

Education Blog: Ohio's New Expulsion Law

On April 8, a new expulsion option can be used by school districts in Ohio. Read more...

April 9, 2025Read More

Notice: Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness(PAIMI) Program

On May 6th, 2025, representatives from the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA), Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) will visit Disability Rights Ohio, the Protection & Advocacy System for the State of Ohio. Read more...

April 4, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: The Promise of Our PAIMI Grant

Willowbrook State School, the largest state institution which opened in 1948 for the treatment of people with intellectual disabilities, was exposed for abuse and neglect atrocities in 1972 following a shocking film by Geraldo Rivera. The outcry following then led to the creation of the Protection and Advocacy network, including... Read more...

April 4, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Collaborating for Change

Since 2021, we have advocated for change in how our communities respond to crises... including programs that do not rely on a police response. Read more...

March 28, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Dismantling the Systems of Accountability

Recently the Department of Education’s staff was cut in half, including the vital Office of Civil Rights. Read more...

March 21, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Who we are.

Earlier this week each version of this video was added to the homepage of our website, and distribution on our Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube channels is underway. Read more...

March 14, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Breaking Norms

Susan Koller - who served on our Board of Directors from 2019 until 2024 - is someone we admire, not only for her successes, but for what she brings to the table. Read more...

February 28, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: The Right Outcome, Delayed

“All children deserve welcoming, clean, safe, structured, trauma-informed environments that support them on their individualized treatment journeys." Read more...

February 21, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: A Budget for Better

Budgets provide an insight into what that state is prioritizing. Read more...

February 14, 2025Read More

Know Your Rights: Telework / Work at Home

With recent news of the state and federal governments and many companies requiring their workers return to the office full time, you may be concerned about your rights as a person with a disability. Read more...

February 13, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: We're Still Here

It’s been a confusing few weeks for so many of us, full of back and forth and conflicting information. Read more...

February 7, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: The Strength of Psychiatric Advance Directives

If you’re interested in disability justice, you may already be aware of advance directives. Read more...

January 31, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: The Long March Towards Equity

Next week, we’ll pause to remember the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Read more...

January 17, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Starting Fresh

After some time away to rest and reflect throughout the holidays, our focus now turns to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Read more...

January 10, 2025Read More

Disability Rights Ohio’s PAIMI Advisory Council

15 member PAIMI Advisory Council (PAC), governed by a set of Operating Standards, advises DRO on priorities and issues important to people receiving mental health services in our state. Read more...

January 8, 2025Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Year in Review

The end of another year brings with it time for gratitude and reflection. In this spirit, we recognize and celebrate some victories in our work before moving into 2025. Read more...

December 20, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: A Year of Conversations

Late last month, a contingent of advocates, experts, and DRO team members met with legislators and their aides to discuss systemic policy initiatives and inclusion in the decision-making process. Read more...

December 6, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Investing in Tomorrow

We need your help to continue to expand our work in this area to better meet the needs of students and families throughout our state. Read more...

November 22, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Planning for Success

The transition from youth to adulthood can be confusing. For students with disabilities, proper planning can go a long way in supporting a successful transition. Read more...

November 15, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Seeing it through

At the end of another election cycle, we’re proud to share our team’s work to advocate for equal access to the voting process. Read more...

November 8, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Preparing for the Polls

Election Day is almost here, and between the political ads, shifting rules, and extra noise, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Read more...

November 1, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Celebrating Empowerment

“Day in and day out we see so much incredible potential represented by individuals with disabilities who seek access to education or training or a workplace accommodation.” Read more...

October 25, 2024Read More

#VoterBlog: Two Weeks Away

The November 5th general election is just 2 weeks away, and your path to a successful voting experience starts by planning and preparing now. Read more...

October 22, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Your Right, Your Vote

The November 5th General Election is just over 2 weeks away. No matter how you plan to participate, the path to a successful voting experience starts now. Read more...

October 18, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Supporting Your Voting Rights

All the work that we do each day outside of our elections is important work, but none truly matter without your voice. Read more...

October 11, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Informing our Path

Our work drives better outcomes when shaped and informed by the real, lived experiences of Ohioans with disabilities. Read more...

October 4, 2024Read More

#VoterBlog: Plan Your Vote

The November 5th general election is just 5 weeks away, and your path to a successful voting experience starts by planning your vote now. Use this rundown to help #PlanYourVote. Read more...

October 1, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Reflecting

While every day and every week bring new challenges and new victories, this past week has certainly kept us busy. Read more...

September 27, 2024Read More

DRO Files Class Action Lawsuit Against the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce

Disability Rights Ohio (DRO) took another step in its continued fight to enforce the rights of parents and students with disabilities at Warren County Educational Service Center Read more...

September 23, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Make a Splash

Each duck on the water is more than just a chance at prizes… every duck bobbing down the river represents an investment into the work our team does all across Ohio each and every day. Read more...

September 20, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Your Right, Your Vote

An equitable society will not be achieved until the opportunity to vote is truly accessible to every individual. Read more...

September 6, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Building Equity in the Classroom

Increasing access and improving outcomes for students with disabilities are pivotal and foundational parts of our work. Read more...

August 30, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Dive In

The work we do - and the needs of people with disabilities all across Ohio - far outpaces the federal grant funding that supports our mission. Read more...

August 23, 2024Read More

DRO to host 4th annual Duck Derby

On Wednesday, September 25th, Disability Rights Ohio will be hosting our 4th annual Duck Derby fundraiser - and we need you to help make it a success! Read more...

August 21, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Sharing Our Work

Our work is complex, but its importance is often best explained by the dedicated individuals who spend their time building towards our ultimate vision. Read more...

August 16, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Are you ready?

Bright futures tomorrow start with educational access today, and our vision of a truly equitable society for people with disabilities won’t be possible until each student receives the resources, tools, and accommodations to learn successfully. Read more...

August 9, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Encontrarte Donde Estés (Meeting You Where You Are)

En todo lo que hacemos en DRO, intentamos proporcionar recursos que se adapten a las personas en su situación actual. Read more...

August 2, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: An Anniversary and Ableism

When accessibility tools and accommodations are weaponized as part of our political discourse, it signals to those living with a disability that their participation and the value of their voice is less important. Read more...

July 26, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Elevating Pride

Empowering and elevating the voices and lived experiences of people with disabilities all across Ohio is at the very center of our work. Read more...

July 19, 2024Read More

Criminalization Over Compassion

Late last month, the US Supreme Court issued a landmark decision on homelessness, opening the door for cities and states to criminalize sleeping outside. Read more...

July 12, 2024Read More

Admissions suspended at Youngstown's Youth Intensive Services, weeks after DRO investigative report

Last week, a month after DRO's investigative report was made public, OhioMHAS suspended admissions to YIS, effective immediately. Read more...

July 2, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: The Story of Our Work

At the core of what we do - in our work all across Ohio - two themes are run throughout: Equity and Empowerment. Read more...

June 28, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Raise Your Voice

Next week, we’re proud to be partnering with the ACLU of Ohio to host a Columbus Safety Collective Community Conversation, where attendees will be able to share their thoughts on community safety and discuss alternatives to policing in crisis situations. Read more...

June 21, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Is This Thing On?

The stories we tell and the ways we reach out really matter. No matter what language you speak, what zip code you have, or what your favorite family meal may be, it matters to all of us to be fully seen. We are striving to serve the people in our... Read more...

June 14, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Shaping Our Future

Our vision of an equitable Ohio is rooted in the real, lived experiences of disabled people all across the state and throughout the communities we serve. Read more...

June 7, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Calls for Help, Unanswered

“We were truly appalled by the issues exposed through our inquiry and we consistently reported our findings to OhioMHAS and YIS.” Read more...

May 31, 2024Read More

DRO launches 2025 Goals and Objectives Survey

DRO has launched their 2025 Goals and Objectives Survey, gathering input and information that will inform, improve, and shape the organization's work in the coming year. Read more...

May 30, 2024Read More

Disability Rights Ohio Concludes 16-month Investigation into Youth Intensive Services

Disability Rights Ohio releases the results of a 16-month investigation into Youngstown's Youth Intensive Services. Read more...

May 28, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: In The Spotlight

We’re always looking to grow our work and expand our reach, even in unusual ways. Read more...

May 17, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: The Clearest Picture

Our work is most effective when focused on and rooted in the real lived experiences of Ohioans with disabilities. Read more...

May 10, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Continuing the Discussion

Throughout 2024, we’ve met with legislators and legislative staffers at the Ohio Statehouse to share our work, host discussions about our advocacy, and answer questions about our organization. Read more...

May 3, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: The Importance of Support

Being able to bring our work and mission into communities across Ohio is central to realizing an equitable Ohio for people with disabilities, but it doesn’t happen on its own. Read more...

April 26, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Empowering through Education

For the last several years, DRO has partnered with Abdnour Weiker, LLP (AW law) and the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (OCECD) to provide a Free Education Legal Clinic series for parents and guardians of children with disabilities. Read more...

April 19, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Leading the Discussion

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...

April 12, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Comedy for a Cause

Connecting with communities and engaging with supporters is pivotal to expanding our reach and realizing our vision all across Ohio. Read more...

April 5, 2024Read More

DRO to host "Don't Call It Standup" Comedy Fundraiser

On Saturday, May 4th, Disability Rights Ohio will be hosting its second-ever "DON'T CALL IT STANDUP" comedy fundraiser. Read more...

April 3, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: LEAP Forward

The room was filled to the brim with legislative staff and people with disabilities. Read more...

March 29, 2024Read More

#AdvocacyMatters: Beyond the Back and Forth

Beyond all this back-and-forth, at the root of this issue is a group of young people who have been deprived of educational opportunities for far too long. Read more...

March 22, 2024Read More

DRO Files Motion to Intervene in the Warren County Educational Service Center Lawsuit against the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce

Action is the latest in ongoing legal dispute to protect students’ rights and ensure that parents are kept informed and can pursue remedies if unhappy with services provided Read more...

March 20, 2024Read More

#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

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