- [Narrator] How to be your own advocate.
- [Audio Description]
- [Narrator] People with disabilities
face a lot of barriers.
Whether it's because places we want to go aren't accessible,
we can't get the resources or technology we need,
our rights are not being respected,
or some other kind of problem,
we know what we need and want better than anyone else.
So it's important to let people know what our needs are.
That's called self-advocacy.
The first and most important step
is to make sure you are safe.
If you are being hurt or are in danger,
tell someone who can take action right away
and get you to safety.
If it's not an emergency,
here's how you can get started with self-advocacy.
You'll need to have information.
Think about the problem you're facing
and what some of the solutions could be.
Then find out what laws and rules may affect your situation.
You can look up information online
or talk to other members of the disability community.
Chances are you can find someone
who has faced the same issue you are dealing with.
And they might be able to point you
towards resources that can help,
like informative videos, podcasts,
online and in person events, and more.
You may also need to find support from other people
to help you with your problem.
Before you meet with someone
to advocate for what you need,
make a list of your goals.
You may be asking for new services,
accommodations, or equipment,
or asking to keep what you have.
If you have any official documents
that support what you need,
make sure to bring them with you.
This can mean things like a note from a doctor or therapist,
or a letter from a vocational rehabilitation counselor.
Speak up for what you need
in whatever ways you're able,
and share when you disagree,
but also try to look for a solution.
Even if you can't get your whole problem solved right away,
talk about what can be done now to help.
Sometimes the people you talk with
may ask you to sign some paperwork.
Take time to read any documents
and talk them over with people you trust before signing.
You can always ask to make changes,
so only sign what you agree to.
As you advocate,
it's also important to stay organized.
Keep a record of everything that happens
while you're advocating.
For example, save your emails and documents,
and take notes during calls and meetings.
Remember to record the names of people you talk with
and the dates of your conversations.
You don't want to miss deadlines
for submitting important documents
or meetings with people
who could help you with your problem.
Tools like calendars, planners, lists,
and phone reminders can help you stay on track.
Whenever you get information
or decisions from healthcare professionals,
government agencies, and other organizations,
ask for it in writing,
and always follow up if you haven't gotten the documents
or information you asked for.
If you gather information,
find support from people who can help you
and stay organized,
you'll be ready to be your own advocate.
It's important to remember
that your self-advocacy may not always turn out
the way you expect, and that's okay.
Keep going!
You have the right, and the power
to speak up for yourself, and be your own advocate.
And just because it's called self-advocacy
doesn't mean you have to do it alone.
You always have the support of the disability community,
people just like you, fighting to break down barriers
all over the globe.