NativeLawLogo.png

Volume 11

December 18, 2024

SUPPORT US
27c342a9-fbb6-43ea-b37d-98d328a4f2ff image

Quarterly Updates

Navajo & Hopi Polling Site Accessibility Surveys

The Law Center recently conducted accessibility surveys of polling sites on the Navajo Nation and in the Hopi community, focusing on parking, sidewalks, and building access. Guided by the 2016 U.S. Department of Justice Polling Site Guidelines, the surveys highlighted both progress and persistent barriers since the last assessment in 2013.

Navajo Nation

The survey covered 19 polling sites, confirming ongoing issues such as uneven sidewalks, gravel parking lots without designated spaces, and heavy doors without automatic openers. New problems, including ramps lacking railings and high thresholds, were also identified. However, there were improvements, including more paved parking lots compared to 2013. The findings were shared with the Navajo Nation Council, prompting discussions about potential legislation to standardize accessibility checks at polling sites. The Law Center also produced voter education recordings in Navajo and English, aired on KTNN, KNDN, and NTU radio stations, to provide information on voter registration, absentee ballots, and Election Day processes for individuals with disabilities.

Hopi Community

Surveys conducted in five of the twelve Hopi villages revealed many of the same barriers from 2013 remain, such as dirt parking lots, lack of designated spaces and signage, and heavy doors without accessible handles or openers. The findings were reviewed with the Hopi Elections Office Director, who is working with a newly forming election board to address these issues and improve access in future elections.

These surveys aim to ensure equitable voting access for all members of the Navajo and Hopi communities while fostering improvements in tribal and local election processes.

Law Center Success Stories

Overcoming Barriers with Advocacy


A 19-year-old Navajo student with disabilities, including blindness, a speech impairment, and diabetes, faced significant challenges in accessing his educational rights. In September 2022, while incarcerated, the student was denied use of his white cane, which was deemed a “weapon.” The Law Center intervened immediately, advocating under Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Their efforts led to the return of his cane the following day and secured his release to a less restrictive setting with his family.

Following this initial victory, the Law Center worked tirelessly to address the student's educational needs. They ensured he received critical services, including Braille instruction, Orientation & Mobility (O&M) training, and assistive technology evaluations provided by the New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the New Mexico Commission for the Blind. The advocacy team facilitated thorough evaluations, connected him with vocational rehabilitation resources, and helped transition him from a shortened school day to full-time attendance.

After extensive advocacy, the student was attending school full-time and receiving the support and services he needed to succeed. He and his family expressed profound gratitude for the Law Center's dedication, which made it possible for him to access the education and tools essential for his success. Today, he continues to grow as a self-advocate and thrive on his educational journey.

Standing Against Workplace Discrimination


A 47-year-old Navajo man with bipolar disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia faced bullying and discrimination while working as a dishwasher at a restaurant. Co-workers frequently targeted his disabilities, making inappropriate comments and disrupting his work. Despite reporting these incidents to his supervisors, he was told to “ignore it,” and no action was taken. After a co-worker threatened to quit and subsequently left, he was unfairly terminated and denied his final paycheck.

The Law Center intervened, filing a discrimination complaint with the New Mexico Human Rights Bureau on his behalf. They also assisted in responding to the employer’s rebuttal and are representing him in an administrative hearing. In addition, the Law Center is pursuing a wage claim to recover his final paycheck and penalties for improper wage tracking.

The case underscores the importance of combating workplace discrimination and ensuring the rights of employees with disabilities are upheld. Through the Law Center’s ongoing advocacy, he is seeking justice and accountability for the injustices he endured.

As 2024 ends, we are busy getting ready for the holiday season and filing our annual reports for our major grants. Drafting the reports provides a nice overview of the Law Center’s work and a good time to reflect. Over the past year, we monitored group homes and other congregate care facilities reaching 161 residents to address and prevent abuse and neglect. We presented at local, regional, and national conferences providing information to over 700 people on the legal rights of and issues facing Native Americans with disabilities. We assisted 358 individuals, including helping 3 men with developmental disabilities register to vote for the first time. We addressed education and access issues through systemic advocacy improving services for scores of people with disabilities. While the Law Center staff work hard every day to address issues facing our community, we do not work alone. We appreciate the partnership of organizations and advocates who share our commitment to our community, and we appreciate the support of those of you across the country.  We hope that everyone has a happy and restful holiday season.

All the best,

Austin, Benita, Floyd, Heather, Hoskie, Jessie, Joy, Marlene, Melissa, Natae, Rose, Roxanne, Valarie, and Therese

Farmington, New Mexico Office

Toll-free: 800-862-7271

Phone: 505-566-5880


Flagstaff, Arizona Office

Toll-Free: 800-862-7271

Phone: (928) 433-0963

SUPPORT US
X Share This Email
LinkedIn Share This Email