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dredf.bsky.social
Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund
@dredf.bsky.social
2K followers 150 following 110 posts
DREDF is a leading national civil rights law and policy center directed by individuals with disabilities. Website: dredf.org
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dredf.bsky.social
Every victory for disability rights is made possible by advocates, families, and allies like you.

Your support powers:
- Partnerships that protect essential policies and laws,
- Critical rights advocacy support,
- Parent education and training.

December 2nd support DREDF: https://dredf.org/donate
Two masculine-presenting friends smile warmly and embrace side by side in a kitchen. One with Down syndrome, grins at the camera; the other wraps their arm around the first and smiles at him. Bold white text reads: “Your Support Helps Disability Rights Through: Partnerships that protect essential policies and laws, Critical rights advocacy support, and parent education and training.” The DREDF logo appears in the top left corner, and a small Giving Tuesday heart design is in the bottom right.
November 26, 2025 at 4:02 PM
dredf.bsky.social
If your child is in the California Children’s Services (CCS) program, the National Health Law Program (NHeLP) is interested in hearing from you with an anonymous, 15 minute survey! Survey closes on November 30, 2025.

Link: https://healthlaw.org/nhelp-ccs-family-engagement-survey/
A graphic with a soft gradient background and a photo of a smiling child writing with an adult beside them. Large text at the top reads: “Is Your Child in the California Children’s Services (CSS) Program? Take the NHeLP Survey.” A blue box below lists survey details: “Helps the National Health Law Program (NHeLP) understand CCS system challenges; Open from Oct. 15 – Nov. 30; Takes about 15 minutes; Anonymous; A chance to win $50 gift card.
November 21, 2025 at 11:01 PM
dredf.bsky.social
IDEA guarantees millions of students with disabilities, like Angela Haynes’s daughter, can learn: 

“IDEA ensured my daughter was taught, included, and believed in—now she reads, holds a job she loves, and advocates for herself and others with pride.”

Learn more at the @americanprogress.bsky.social
A graphic titled “IDEA at 50” shows rows of student desks, with three desks highlighted in yellow among many gray ones. Text reads: “During the 2022–23 school year, 7.6 million students between the ages of 3 and 21 received special education services through IDEA. That’s three out of every 20 public school students.” The CAP logo appears in the bottom right corner.
November 21, 2025 at 5:03 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Confused by IEP assessment reports? Join DREDF’s PTI experts on Dec 8, 7:00–8:45 pm PT, for a free virtual training to understand assessments and use them in your IEP meeting. Register at https://dredf.org/event/evaluations-and-assessment-reports-how-to-review-them-and-prepare-for-the-iep-meeting/
A collage of three photos showing diverse children and adults engaged in learning activities. Text reads: “DREDF Training Series; Evaluations and Assessment Reports: How to Review Them and Prepare for the IEP Meeting. Virtual Training, Monday, December 8, 2025, 7:00–8:45 pm PT.” A red “Register” button appears at the bottom.
November 20, 2025 at 11:01 PM
dredf.bsky.social
What happens when 16% of the world’s population is left out of health research?

The Health Equity Collaborative’s recent article in "The Lancet Regional Health – Americas" explores the need to center public health research and policy.
Read the one-page summary: linktr.ee/dredf
A news screenshot-looking image in the center has a banner that reads ‘In The News’ Below is an image of a diverse group of people in a meeting room sit in a circle, smiling and reviewing papers and laptops. Below that is the headline ‘Putting Disability at the Center of Public Health Research.' This sits over the out of focus image of a hospital campus. The DREDF logo is in the top right corner.
November 19, 2025 at 5:03 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Why is the IDEA important? For millions of parents, like Juliet Barraza, mother of Ben, it has been essential to a full life: "Without the IDEA, Ben's life and our life would have been dramatically different. IDEA was a light that shined on his educational needs and transformed his life and ours."
A black-and-white photo shows two students sitting at desks in a classroom, listening intently. They both wear hearing aides. Bold yellow text across the top reads, “IDEA AT 50.” Below, white text on a dark overlay states, “The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) turns 50 this year. The law ensured disabled kids would have access to public schools and promised funding for schools to make it possible.” The Center for American Progress logo is in the bottom corner.
November 19, 2025 at 1:02 AM
dredf.bsky.social
We grieve the loss of our friend, former board member, and disability justice giant, Alice Wong.

Her leadership transformed movements. Her generosity transformed people.

Read the full post on our website: https://dredf.org/in-memory-of-alice-wong-1974-2025/
Asian American woman in a wheelchair with a tracheostomy at her neck that has a tube connected to her ventilator. Her head is tilted to the left side, she is smiling, and she is wearing a magenta lip color. Her shirt is plaid with pale pink and other pastel colors and she is wearing pink pants. Behind her is a lot of greenery from bushes and trees at a park. Photo Credit: John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. Text reads "In Memory of Alice Wong" A poem that reads, "Alice, thank you for all you gave me: Disabled pride; new unicorn friends; a reason to write; a reason to sing; permission to express rage; "I will not apologize for my needs"; the book I recommend to everyone, Disability Visibility; "This was the next iteration of my cyborg existence"; understanding; comradeship; community; flowers; pictures of your cats; dried strawberries; love; the knowledge I wasn't alone" – Aubrie Lee with the DREDF logo in the corner.
November 18, 2025 at 11:02 PM
dredf.bsky.social
We are now accepting Arlene Mayerson Summer Internship applications (for rising 2Ls & 3Ls). Join us at DREDF and work alongside attorneys, special education advocates, and policy analysts! Learn more at dredf.org/2026-dredf-a...
Text reads “We are hiring! 2026 Arlene Mayerson Summer Interns DREDF is looking for rising 2L or 3L law students with interest in disability rights and social justice. All law student applicants, regardless of qualifications, will be considered. This internship provides the opportunity to receive a stipend. Deadline for applications is February 7, 2026” with a photo of a white coffee mug with the DREDF logo on it.
November 10, 2025 at 8:58 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Your air travel story can spark change.

DREDF's friends at All Wheels Up are supporting research by inviting passengers with disabilities and caregivers to share their air travel experiences in a study.

Take the brief anonymous survey: https://ku.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0UMzzfiSH8Vdkq2
A blue and light-blue graphic with bold white text that reads, “Share your air travel experience! As a passenger with a disability or their caregiver.” Below, text says, “You can help increase understanding of air travel experiences, adaptations, and accommodations for passengers with disabilities.” A QR code appears in the bottom left corner, and two small megaphone icons are placed in opposite corners.
November 6, 2025 at 6:03 PM
dredf.bsky.social
November is Native American Heritage Month. 

Learn how disability and Native identity intersect through first-hand stories and resources from @disabilityrightsfl.bsky.social: https://disabilityrightsflorida.org/blog/entry/deaf_disabled_native_americans
November 3, 2025 at 6:30 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Cuts to special education protections are happening now.

Join DREDF + partners at a Virtual Town Hall to Protect IDEA on Nov 4 @ 4 pm ET.

Together, we can help protect the rights of children w/ disabilities.

Register https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ROjpXDrPS76Hm2y3udCXbg<a href="/hashtag/%2Fregistration" class="hover:underline text-blue-600 dark:text-sky-400 no-card-link">#/registration
A square graphic with a maroon border and a white center panel. Bold red headline reads: “Cuts to Special Education Protections Are Happening Now!” Below, text says: “Join a Virtual Town Hall to Protect Children with Disabilities & Protect IDEA. Tuesday, November 4, 2025 @ 4:00 pm ET.” There are logos of participating organizations: The Center for Learner Equity, National Down Syndrome Congress, National Center for Learning Disabilities, The Arc, Council for Exceptional Children, and COPAA.
October 31, 2025 at 10:02 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Wondering how special ed evaluations work and why they matter?

Join us for a free virtual training on Nov. 10, 7 to 8:30 pm PT: "Special Education Evaluations: Why & How We Evaluate Students with Disabilities” to learn about tests and why they're needed.
Hosted by DREDF PTI. 
Register at dredf.org
Image description: A collage of three photos of children smiling, learning alongside an adult. Text reads: “DREDF Training Series: Special Education Evaluations - Why and How We Evaluate Students with Disabilities. Virtual Training, Monday, November 10, 2025, 7:00–8:45 pm PT.” A red button says “REGISTER.”
October 31, 2025 at 4:30 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Please join us in welcoming Drew, our new Communications Strategist! Drew will strengthen and expand DREDF's communications efforts during a critical time for disability rights. We’re looking forward to sharing more content, more often, including more videos.
Black and white professional headshot of Drew, a white woman with blue eyes and long blond hair. Two smaller photos of Drew editing videos.
October 30, 2025 at 11:02 PM
dredf.bsky.social
23 years ago, the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) expanded voting access for millions of voters with disabilities.

Today, we celebrate that progress and continue working toward full participation for all.

#VotingRights #Accessibility #YesAccess #HAVA
A feminine-presenting white person using a power wheelchair is beside a "Vote Here" sign and has a universal symbol of access. In the background, there is polling stations in a gym. Text reads: "The Help America Vote Act turns 23 years old today! Thanks to the Help America Vote Act, every polling place is required to include an accessible booth and voting system to ensure that your vote counts. Claim your power at the polls." The DREDF logo is in the top corner.
October 29, 2025 at 6:03 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Today is the #SNAPDayOfAction, and we need you to join us and act now.

42 million Americans are at risk of losing SNAP benefits on Nov 1st. USDA has a contingency fund but hasn't released it. Contact your Members of Congress today.
An illustration promoting the “SNAP Day of Action.” The image shows a green cliff edge with a grocery bag labeled “SNAP” tipping off the side. The text reads: “SNAP Day of Action — Urge policymakers to restore food assistance before SNAP falls off the cliff.” Below the image of the bag, it says in red and blue text: “Take action now before benefits run out in November.” The background is a gradient blue sky.
October 29, 2025 at 12:19 AM
dredf.bsky.social
Friends, family, and neighbors shouldn’t have to go hungry, become unhoused, and lose healthcare.

Millions are already hurting with basic needs cuts and millions more are at risk from the continuing government shutdown.

Learn how it will impact you and what you can do: dredf.org/shutdown-update/
Image has a light brown background with radiating circles. To the left is an image collage of the closeup of people’s eyes. They appear to be a variety ages, races, and genders to reflect the diversity of those impacted. Text on the image is dark blue and red to convey urgency. It says “Millions are already hurting from cuts to healthcare and basic needs. Here’s what to know and what to do as the government shutdown continues.” The DREDF logo appears in the top left corner.
October 27, 2025 at 11:02 PM
dredf.bsky.social
The Trump Administration wants to reverse the Rehabilitation Act's Section 503 regulations that supports federal contractors having disabled people represent 7% of their workforce. We refuse to let that happen! On this #DisabledWomensEqualPayDay, join us in fighting back! tinyurl.com/DWEPD25
Centered over a dark green background, capitalized top header text reads “Disabled Women’s Equal Pay Day 2025 October 23” in white and yellow letters. Below, white text reads “We’re still fighting for equal pay.” Centered at the bottom are four hand-drawn people. From left to right, there is a person sitting down facing left, a person standing wearing dark sunglasses and holding a cane, a person with a prosthetic leg standing and waving, and a person sitting in a wheelchair facing left.
October 23, 2025 at 9:01 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Today is #DisabledWomensEqualPayDay, and our rights and health are under attack. Medicaid cuts are projected to deprive disabled women of life-saving health care and employment supports. Join us in fighting back! tinyurl.com/DWEPD25
○ Centered at the top over a dark green background, the capitalized header text reads “Disabled Women’s Equal Pay Day 2025 October 23” in white and yellow letters. Below is white text that reads “Tell Congress: Reverse the devastating Medicaid cuts and pass the Protecting Healthcare And Lowering Costs Act!” Below that is a light green rectangle with capitalized black text that reads “Take Action,” and a white arrow pointing to the text as if clicking on a button.
October 23, 2025 at 6:02 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Enhanced Premium Tax Credits protect over 20 million people from medical bills that drain savings & wreck credit.

Congress had the chance to act—instead, they chose cuts.

Join us in urging Congress to make these tax credits permanent & repeal health care cuts: commcat.io/467vrRn

#CareNotCuts
Exterior of the U.S. Capitol building with a hand in a megaphone. Text reads "Millions are already stretching every dollar - They can't afford higher premiums or more medical debt. Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (PTCs) help more than 20 million people get affordable health coverage. Tell members of Congress to repeal the harmful cuts they passed and make PTCs permanent."
September 25, 2025 at 4:11 PM
dredf.bsky.social
Our 46th Anniversary Event, Celebrating Resistance, is 14 days away! The event will be held in Berkeley at the Ed Roberts Campus and livestreamed via Zoom. Learn more and get tickets now: dredf.org/event/celebr...
Text reads “Celebrating Resistance - 46th Anniversary Event - Thursday, September 11, 2025, Ed Roberts Campus, Berkeley and online. RSVP: bit.ly/DREDF-2025. An evening of fun, activism and community with keynote Keith Jones” with a portrait of Keith, a black man in his 60s, looks seriously at the camera. He’s wearing glasses and a grey t-shirt. There is an illustration of a raised fist and a QR code.
August 28, 2025 at 5:42 PM
dredf.bsky.social
We just released a statement on SB 258 and our work to ensure the bill protects the sexual autonomy of all disabled people. Our FAQ provides context on the bill, the amendments we fought for & why we took the position we did.

Our full statement: dredf.org/promoting-se...
FAQ: dredf.org/sb-258-faq/
Two people dancing, one dancer is a wheelchair user. The photo is on top of the exterior of the Sacramento Capitol building. Text reads &quot;Promoting Sexual Autonomy of Disabled People: DREDF Announces Amendments to SB 258&quot; with the DREDF logo in the corner.
August 20, 2025 at 8:41 PM
dredf.bsky.social
DREDF is collecting stories this weekend to uplift at the 60-Hour Protect Medicaid Vigil. Please submit your story here this weekend so we can have them ready to read beginning July 23rd: www.surveymonkey.com/r/protect-me...

More information on the vigil: protectmedicaidvigil.com
Graphic with the text that says, “60-hour Protect Medicaid Vigil at the national mall, begins July 23 at 9pm, ends July 26 at 9am”
July 18, 2025 at 10:06 PM
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Yesterday, more than 50 people were arrested by Capitol police for protesting the proposed cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other essential lifelines. These cuts will cause immense harm to disabled and multiply marginalized people. Among those arrested was our Governmental Affairs Liaison, Carol.
Black and white photo of Carol being arrested by 3women4craft2market on instagram
June 26, 2025 at 4:54 PM
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NEW @nlihc.org "Advocates’ Guide 2025: A Primer on Federal Affordable Housing and Community Development Programs and Policies": nlihc.org/explore-issu...

@justiceinaging.org, The Kelsey and DREDF contributed to "Federal Housing Protections for People with Disabilities": nlihc.org/sites/defaul...
Cover of the 2025 Advocates' Guide, showing five photographs of various types of housing and people. Screenshot of Federal Housing Protections for People with Disabilities article
May 29, 2025 at 7:16 PM
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The current Administration is making decisions that hurt students w/ disabilities, students who are trans, autistic, and/or immigrants, and our communities as a whole. Learn more about what’s happening in education, what it means for our rights + how we fight back: dredf-org.zoom.us/webinar/regi...
Text reads “Upcoming webinar: Disability Community Fights Back: Defending Students. Thursday, June 5 at 10:30 am - 12:00 pm PT / 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm ET” with a graphic of raised fist and protest signs.
May 28, 2025 at 10:39 PM