Protecting and Advocating for the Rights of Texans with Disabilities Since 1977
March 2022 Newsletter:
Creating a Community of Respect and Inclusion
It's March, so you've probably noticed we've been celebrating Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month. Our latest blog post, "Creating a Community Where All Are Respected and Included," reminds us that people with DD are like everyone else and that we all have more in common than we might think.
How can you celebrate this month? Read our blog to learn more about how you can interact with people with DD in ways they prefer and what you can do to include them in all aspects of your community.
This month we're also raising awareness about how people with DD can use alternatives to guardianship, such as supported decision making (SDM), to stay in control of their lives and be self-determined. When people with disabilities are placed under guardianship, they can lose most of their rights, and important decisions about their lives are often made without them.
You can also celebrate DD Awareness Month by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram,or watching our SDM YouTube playlistfor real stories of Texans who have had their rights restored after being under guardianship. And make sure to visit the Supported Decision Making pageon our website for tools and resources.
ASL Videos
Did you know our website has several videos in American Sign Language (ASL)? These resources help you understand your rights, follow important disability-related news, and learn about recent changes to the law. We have different categories such as Employment and Vocational Rehabilitation, Supported Decision Making, Voting, and more. For example, our newest ASL video covers what you need to know about applying for a ballot by mail. Visit the ASL Videos section of our website for more information.
DRTx Announces New Executive Director
In case you missed it, we recently announced that Sean A. Jackson, J.D., will serve as our next Executive Director. He is an accomplished public interest attorney with a 30-year record of advocacy for clients in legal matters. He will begin transitioning from his current role as a DRTx Supervising Attorney to his new position as Executive Director on March 28. Learn more about Sean Jackson's experience and accomplishments.
Get Help from DRTx
Texas residents experiencing disability discrimination or having problems getting disability services can apply for our legal services. To apply, you can either complete our online intake form anytime, or call us Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at:
Disability Rights Texas (previously named Advocacy Inc.) is the federally designated legal protection and advocacy agency (P&A) for people with disabilities in Texas. Its mission is to help people with disabilities understand and exercise their rights under the law, ensuring their full and equal participation in society. Visit www.DRTx.org for more information.
