Advocacy for Disability Rights and Inclusion
Here are some resources on how to advocate for disability rights and inclusion
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves;
ensure justice for those being crushed.
Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless,
and see that they get justice. Proverbs 31:8-9 (New Living Translation)
National Advocacy Organizations
American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) - A national cross-disability rights organization advocating for full civil rights for over 60 million Americans with disabilities, promoting equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation.
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) - Focuses on advocacy for policy changes and provides resources for people seeking to live independently with a disability.
National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) - Promotes the network's capacity and ensures Protection & Advocacy programs remain strong and effective by providing training and fighting for people with disabilities.
Faith-Based Disability Advocacy Resources
Disability Ministry Network (DMN) - A network of denominational and para-church organizations who promote inclusive congregational ministries for and with people with disabilities, their families, friends, and caregivers.
Ability Ministry - Helps churches more effectively partner with people who have disabilities, offering training videos, books, curriculum, and articles to equip the 25% of the population with a disability.
Christian Reformed Church Disability Resources - Provides the "Breaking Barriers" newsletter and various resources that encourage and equip churches to be places of belonging for people with disabilities.
Nathaniel's Hope - Builds a national network of churches to serve families with special needs through programs like "Buddy Break" respite care and other support services.
Practical Advocacy Toolkits and Guides
Autistic Self Advocacy Network - ADA Toolkit - Provides both Easy Read and Plain Language versions of "A Self-Advocate's Guide to the Americans with Disabilities Act."
NACDD Self-Advocacy Resources - Includes "Uncomfortable Conversations: A Toolkit for Advocates" and connections to various self-advocacy training programs.
6 Practical Ways to Advocate
Here are six actionable ways to support disability inclusion and rights:
Educate Yourself - Start with understanding challenges people with disabilities face and learn about existing policies and rights
Start Conversations - Share resources with friends, family, or colleagues to spread awareness
Notice and Address Barriers - Ask if spaces you visit are accessible and speak up when you notice barriers
Amplify Disabled Voices - Follow, share, and engage with disabled creators on social media
Volunteer and Support Organizations - Connect with local disability rights organizations
Advocate for Policy Change - Understand existing disability rights laws to strengthen advocacy efforts