Disability Rights California (DRC)

Vision They envision a barrier-free, inclusive, diverse world that values each individual and their voice. In this world, all people with disabilities enjoy the power of equal rights and opportunities, dignity, choice, independence and freedom from abuse, neglect and discrimination.  Mission Disability Rights California works to advance dignity, equality, independence and freedom for all Californians with disabilities and use these principles to guide their advocacy work.  What They Do They strive to provide the type of advocacy that is most effective in addressing the issues that impact individuals with disabilities. They reach out to under-served populations and strive to provide culturally appropriate services statewide. Their services may include: Telling people with disabilities about their many legal, civil and service rights. Encouraging and supporting self-advocacy by educating individuals about their rights and providing the information and tools they need to act on their own behalf. Investigating and, when appropriate, addressing reports of abuse and/or neglect. Promoting policy changes that benefit many people with disabilities. Providing legal assistance on disability related issues based on their priorities and case selection criteria. Providing patients’ rights advocacy for state psychiatric hospital residents and technical assistance and training for county advocates. Providing rights advocacy for clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are receiving services from regional centers. Bringing impact litigation and acting as amicus curiae to defend disability rights.