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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

Every student should have the opportunity to learn. Right now, disabled students in California are separated from their peers, experiencing disproportionate discipline, and facing a shortage of trained staff. Explore the full report: bit.ly/CA-state-of-state-2026

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Millions of disabled Californians continue to be excluded from the workforce, and our representation is critical. Read the full report: bit.ly/CA-state-of-state-2026

Text says, “The State of Disability in California | 2026. Disabled Californians are being left out of the workforce.” Data shows that 44% of working-age disabled Californians are employed, compared with 77% without disabilities; disabled workers face a 10.9% unemployment rate; and California has the nation’s 6th-highest disability unemployment rate. An illustration shows a diverse group of disabled and nondisabled coworkers in an office.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 03/10/2026

Being out in the community is more important than ever. On October 10, Disability Night Out is inviting disabled people, families, friends, and allies to gather at restaurants across the country and celebrate our right to participate fully in community life. Learn more at: disabilitynightout.org

Text says, ”Disability Night Out. October 10, 2026. Join us in gathering at restaurants across the country and celebrating our right to participate fully in community life.” An illustration shows four disabled people sharing a meal and conversation at a restaurant, including a wheelchair user and a person with a white cane.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

California has long been an epicenter of civil rights progress. But for millions of disabled Californians, equity remains out of reach. DREDF is highlighting findings from the 2026 State of the State: Disability Policy in California report: bit.ly/CA-state-of-state-2026

DREDF infographic, “The State of Disability in California | 2026.” Key statistics: 4.6M+ Californians have disabilities; 21.3% of working-age disabled Californians live below the poverty line; 40.1% of students with disabilities spend less than 80% of their day in general education; 44% of working-age disabled Californians are employed; and California faces a shortage of 981,980 affordable homes.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Thank you, AG Rob Bonta, for affirming his commitment to “upholding the law and will use the full force of my office to protect the rights of Californians with disabilities.” Now we urge him to Sign the Commitment to Community Integration: dredf.org/september-2026-tell-bonta…

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

At a time when our freedom to live in our communities is under attack, Congress can reaffirm it with H.R. 1586, a bipartisan House resolution that sends the message that disabled people belong in our communities. Urge your representative to cosponsor it: dredf.org/take-action-res-1586

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

We make the choices about our own lives that most people never think twice about: where we live, who we live with, and how we spend our days. Help defend that freedom by taking action with our new guide: dredf.org/community-living-is-a-civ…

Black-and-white image of Lois Curtis, plaintiff in Olmstead v. Lois, smiles while holding papers in a home setting, with a refrigerator, notes, artwork, and other everyday household items behind them. A report style cover reads “Community Living Is a Civil Right: A Guide to Understanding Olmstead v. Lois Curtis, the Integration Mandate, and the 2026 Office of Legal Counsel Opinion” with the logos for DREDF and AAPD on it.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

The federal government has erased an important tool for enforcing our right to live in our communities. But it has not taken that right away. DREDF and several organizations condemn this administration’s abandonment of disabled Americans. Read more here: bit.ly/4dVqM8m

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Sept. 21–27 is International Week of Deaf People. This year’s theme, “Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights,” reminds us to celebrate the rich history, culture and impact of Deaf people who have shaped disability rights across generations and advanced human rights. More: tinyurl.com/3jrysben

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

Join us on Oct. 8 for Readily Accessible Lawyering, a training on practical ways attorneys can reduce access barriers and better serve disabled clients. 12 - 1:15 pm PT MCLE credits available. Register: bit.ly/4xunIae

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

We’re joining AAPD in #DisabilityVotingRightsWeek, a cross-disability, cross-movement week of nonpartisan action and celebration. Join us in becoming an Accessible Democracy Defender: www.aapd.com/disability-voting-righ…

Person holding a megaphone with text promoting Disability Voting Rights Week from September 14 to 18. Text reads: Be an accessible democracy defender.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

A public space isn’t truly public if disabled people can’t use it. In Kirola v. San Francisco, the City is making legal arguments that could weaken ADA and Section 504 protections far beyond the city. Learn more: dredf.org/kirola-cta-september-2026

Text reads, “San Francisco: Don’t mess with the ADA.” Above, a wheelchair user travels along a tree-lined path in a public park as sunlight filters through the surrounding trees.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Disabled people have the right to live in our own homes with the support we need. But the federal government is trying to weaken that right. When 78 organizations asked AG Rob Bonta to sign a commitment defending community living, he didn't respond. Urge him to sign: bit.ly/3TnzxRG

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Gregory Kase should still be here. A Deaf man in crisis told deputies, “I can’t hear you.” In less than a minute, he was shot and killed. We are in solidarity with Gregory’s family and Rochester’s Deaf community as they gather Sept. 9 to mourn, demand accountability & change: bit.ly/3SMhfcF

Black graphic with bold yellow text reading “I CAN’T HEAR YOU.” Below, text states that Gregory Kase, a Deaf man, was killed by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department on August 9 after police shouted instructions he could not hear and no ASL interpreter was present. The graphic invites community members and allies to a vigil demanding accountability and action. Wednesday, September 9 at 6:00 p.m. ET, 497 State Street, Rochester.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Behind every disability rights victory are people who showed up for each other and kept fighting for a better future. We look forward to seeing you on Sept. 10 to celebrate the community that makes our movement loud, proud & unstoppable. Get your tickets: dredf.org/event/47th-gala

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Latest from #TexasVKennedy: The Department of Justice is asking a court to eliminate community integration provisions from Health and Human Services’s Section 504 regulations. We strongly condemn this action. Read our statement: dredf.org/statement-texas-v-kennedy…

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

DREDF and 12 disability and civil rights organizations filed a Supreme Court brief defending protections that help overcome historic discrimination so disabled preschoolers can access equal educational opportunities. Read more: dredf.org/smcp-v-roy-amicus-press-r…

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Every child should be treated fairly and have the opportunity to learn and build their future. But new federal guidance makes it harder to address systemic racism impacting who is disciplined, excluded from class, and denied opportunities to learn. Read our response: tinyurl.com/5d6z7fym

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

If disabled people are denied care, housing, mental health services, and supports while discrimination and assisted suicide laws push them down the path of killing themselves, is that really a choice? Learn more about this issue and how to document discrimination: tinyurl.com/yc2za78n

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

September 10th, we're gathering to celebrate the people, creativity, relationships, and shared experiences that make Disability Culture extraordinary. Laugh. Cheer. Connect. And celebrate being loud, proud, and unstoppable! Reserve your spot: dredf.org/event/47th-gala

A collage of candid photos from the 2025 DREDF Gala shows disabled and nondisabled people socializing, laughing, posing, and celebrating together. At the center, a pinned note reads, “Joy is an act of resistance!”

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

DREDF opposes the federal “Treatment First” toolkit, which conditions housing on treatment and compliance while ignoring proven evidence of effective Housing First strategies and fundamental human rights. Read more: bit.ly/3S3UfWi

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

DREDF and 70 other CA organizations are asking Gov. Newsom and AG Bonta to publicly affirm California's support for the disability integration mandate. Our freedom was hard won. Defend it. Read our action alert and letters: dredf.org/defend-olmstead-v-lois-cu…

A collage about community living on a patterned background of colorful house icons. Photos show people gathered together indoors, four adults laughing together outdoors, including a wheelchair user, and a wheelchair user holding a baby at home.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Taking away someone's shelter does not solve homelessness. California’s AB 647 would expand authority to tow and destroy RVs people use as homes - putting disabled unhoused people at greater risk. Learn more and take action AB 647 before Aug. 13: bit.ly/4wVYLFr

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

One year ago, the National Guard and expanded federal law enforcement entered DC. Resources should support housing, health care, education, transit, and community for disabled, immigrants, and all community members. DC belongs to the people of DC. Tell your member of Congress: bit.ly/4cykzyu

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

Thank you to DREDF's 2026 summer interns! We're grateful for your hard work, thoughtful contributions, and commitment to disability rights. It has been a privilege to learn alongside you and support your journey. Wishing you all the best as you continue advancing disability rights and justice.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 08/08/2026

We're excited to welcome Leah Kang to DREDF as our new Supervising Senior Attorney. Leah brings extensive experience in disability rights, civil rights, and racial justice advocacy, and we're thrilled to have her join our team. Learn more about Leah: dredf.org/person/leah-kang

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

For 47 years, DREDF has been part of the disability community, working to defend our rights and advance our shared future. Join us to celebrate our history and the vibrant disability culture that continues to power the fight for a more inclusive future. Join us: dredf.org/event/47th-gala

Text says, "You are invited to the 47th Anniversary Gala. Disability Culture: Loud, Proud, Unstoppable." Event details below state: "Thursday, September 10, 2026, Ed Roberts Campus, Berkeley & Online." Decorative purple, blue, and gold graphic accents frame the banner. On the right is a portrait of recording artist and disability advocate Lachi wearing a pink blouse, with a callout that reads, "Featuring: Recording Artist & Advocate Lachi."

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

Tell your Senators to support the bipartisan Protecting Students with Disabilities Act (S. 5046) to keep special education and rehabilitative services in the U.S. Department of Education. Education is a right, and the key to our future. Defend it. Read the statement: tinyurl.com/ppnm9wem

Alt text: Large text reads, "Defend the Future of Special Education." Below, smaller text states, "Take Action to Keep Special Education Protections Where They Belong." In a classroom setting, a young, red-headed child with Down syndrome wearing a yellow-and-blue striped shirt smiles while working with an adult on an activity.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

Join us tonight for an evening of conversation and connection with author and disability activist Dara Baldwin. Register now!: dredf.org/event/lets-talk-about-the…

Bold text reads, "TONIGHT! Let's Talk About the Problem." Event details: Tuesday, July 28, 2026; Online: 6–7 p.m. PT; In-Person: 5–8 p.m. PT. A QR code and the website "dredf.org/events" are included for registration. On the left is a black-and-white portrait of a speaker wearing a patterned jacket and a large beaded necklace, facing the camera. Along the bottom are the logos for DREDF and the Center for Independent Living, identified as the presenters.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

Disability rights extend to the immigration system. Section 504 protects accessibility rights of disabled people interacting with USCIS, ICE, CBP, and immigration courts, ensuring reasonable accommodations and equal access. Our new guide these protections: bit.ly/4fadGW6

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 04/07/2026

Independence is about the freedom and support to choose where we live, learn, work, and participate in our communities. This Independence Day, we recommit to defending the disability rights laws, policies, and community supports that make freedom and opportunity possible.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

Join DREDF on July 28 for the "Let's Talk About the Problem" Book Tour with Dara Baldwin, author of 'To Be a Problem: A Black Woman's Survival in the Racist Disability Rights Movement.' Attend in person or online. Register now: tinyurl.com/4c38fmn2

Large text reads, “Let’s Talk About the Problem, an evening of conversation and connection with Dara Baldwin about her journey to become a disability activist and policymaker while facing the reality of the erasure of people of color in the disability rights movement.” The event will be held Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 5 to 8 pm PT at the Ed Roberts Campus and online. A portrait of Dara Baldwin, a black female with short hair, appears beside the cover of her book,

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

The disability rights movement has spent decades fighting against systems that exclude and lock up disabled people. Our rights were not freely given; they were won through decades of advocacy, organizing + legal action. A new @apnews.com article examines what’s at risk: tinyurl.com/2jezh52m

Screenshot of an Associated Press article dated July 1, 2026, headline reads: “Trump’s actions signal a move toward institutionalizing people with disabilities, advocates warn.” Below is the article’s photo of a mother and son sitting on a couch. Caption text reads “1 of 5 | Lindsey Althaus and her son, Whitman Althaus, 12, who has autism and a neurological disorder called apraxia, pose for a portrait at their home Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Luckey, Ohio. (AP Photo/Nic Antaya)”

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

We opposed a proposed U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) rule that would make it harder for transgender and gender diverse people to access federally funded shelters. Read our comments and learn more: bit.ly/4ePFrlr

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

The latest Supreme Court rulings make it clear that the right to be included will be protected for some, while others can be categorically excluded from spaces. Read DREDF’s statement: dredf.org/statement-on-scotus-july-…

Large text reads, “DREDF Statement on Recent SCOTUS Decisions, with quote: ' Diversity of bodies, minds, immigration status, and gender is not a threat to our communities. It is one of our greatest strengths. By Michelle Uzeta, Executive Director,” Image of Michelle and a photo of the exterior of the Supreme Court building at night.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

A new factsheet from DREDF, @transequality.bsky.social & @disabilityrightsca.bsky.social explains how Section 504, the ADA, and IDEA can help protect students from discrimination, secure accommodations, and support access to education. Read more: dredf.org/trans-students-fact-sheet

Beneath a photo of an empty classroom with rows of desks and a chalkboard, large text reads, “Transgender Students with Disabilities” and “Federal Disability Rights and Education Laws Fact Sheet,” with the logos for Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, Advocates for Trans Equality and Disability Rights California.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

Behind every budget line is a person, a family, and a community. On July 1, join the LTSS4All Grassroots Coalition in Sacramento, Los Angeles, or virtually to speak up for Medi-Cal, IHSS, and community living. Remind California policymakers to invest in care. tinyurl.com/LTSS4All

LTSS4All Grassroots Coalition flyer titled “Final Budget Action.” It announces press events and an action hour responding to California’s final state budget and advocating for Medi-Cal and IHSS for immigrants, older adults, and people with disabilities. Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Events: Sacramento, 10:30 a.m. at the State Capitol; Los Angeles, 11 a.m. at the State Building, 300 South Spring Street; Virtual, 12 p.m.

LTSS4All titulado “Acción final sobre el presupuesto.” Anuncia eventos de prensa y una hora de acción en respuesta al presupuesto estatal definitivo de California, abogando por Medi-Cal e IHSS para inmigrantes, adultos mayores y personas con discapacidad. Fecha: miércoles, 1 de julio de 2026. Eventos: Sacramento, 10:30 a. m. en el Capitolio Estatal; Los Ángeles, 11:00 a. m. en el Edificio Estatal, 300 South Spring Street; virtual, 12:00 p. m.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

Special education belongs in the Department of Education. On June 25, join the National Call-In Day and tell Congress to oppose moving IDEA oversight and civil rights enforcement out of the Department of Education. Call: (202) 224-3121

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 24/06/2026

Housing is often foundational for stability. CARE Court counsel, join DREDF and Kim Swain (retired from @disabilityrightsca.bsky.social) for a practical training on housing advocacy on June 30 at 1 pm PT. Register: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN…

Text reads: “Housing Advocacy 101 for CARE Court Counsel.” The webinar covers housing programs and support services available through California’s mental health system for CARE Court participants and others with mental health disabilities. Event details: Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. PT. MCLE: 1.25 General Credits. ASL and CART (live captions) provided. A photo shows two hands holding a small wooden house cutout.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

Lois Curtis kept asking her attorney, “Get me out of here. Would you please get me out of here? When am I getting out of here?” when stuck inside a state-run psychiatric facility, despite being cleared to leave. #IAmOlmstead

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

The Trump Administration plans to move special ed & civil rights offices out of the Department of Ed. These offices oversee IDEA & enforce disability civil rights protections. Congress created the Department of Ed - and only Congress can change it. Our statement on this: dredf.org/this-isnt-re...

Large yellow text reading, “Special Education is Under Attack.” Smaller white text explains that the Trump Administration plans to illegally remove special education and civil rights offices from the U.S. Department of Education, which would leave students and families confused, frustrated, and less protected. Below, a wrecking ball hangs beside a tall stack of books, symbolizing threats to education. A red arrow on the right indicates to scroll.

A photo at the top shows a student who uses a manual wheelchair with classmates and an educator in a school hallway. Large text asks, “What Is Happening?” The graphic explains that the U.S. Department of Education plans to move the offices responsible for special education and civil rights enforcement to other federal agencies. It states these offices help enforce disability rights, oversee special education services, and hold schools accountable for discrimination.

Large yellow text asks, “What Offices Are Impacted?” The graphic explains that the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) helps enforce the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ensuring disabled students receive a free public education that meets their needs. It also explains that the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) protects students from discrimination based on disability, race, sex, and other protected characteristics. A photo at the bottom shows students working together in a classroom. A red arrow indicates to scroll.

A photo at the top shows a student meeting one-on-one with an educator at a classroom table. Large text asks, “Why Does It Matter?” The graphic explains that families rely on these offices to help students with disabilities receive services, supports, and civil rights protections. It states that moving the offices out of the Department of Education without congressional approval is illegal, weakens accountability, makes it harder for families to know where to seek help when rights are violated, and increases delays in receiving support. A red arrow indicates to scroll.

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

The ADA was signed 35 years ago. California's SB 84 would make it harder to ensure businesses comply. Learn more in this carousel, then contact your legislators and tell them: Vote NO on SB 84! Call the Assembly Judiciary Committee (916) 319-2334. Find a member: ajud.assembly.ca.gov/members

Text reads “What Does SB 84 Do? SB 84 creates additional barriers to justice by requiring disabled people to be responsible for: ✓ Finding access barriers ✓ Writing a formal notice ✓ Sending it to the business ✓ Waiting 120 days before trying to hold them accountable through legal action ✓ Absorbing the cost and indignity of being denied access”

Text reads “No One Else Has To Do This. If you experience discrimination because of your: Race, Religion, Sex, National origin. You don't have to send a warning letter first. California’s SB 84 creates a special hurdle for disabled people alone.”

Text reads “The real-life impact. If SB 84 passes, disabled people will have to: live with the impact of discrimination longer, find additional resources for an unnecessarily complicated process, work as unpaid compliance consultants, and encounter even more businesses that aren’t accessible and won’t make an effort to comply”

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

For many disabled people, emotional support animals are essential to staying housed and community connected. Join us for a webinar on HUD's recent policy shift, California housing protections, and practical guidance for advocates and tenants. 6/23, 1 PM PT Register:https://tinyurl.com/ms8w3scf

Text reads, “Webinar. Federal Retreat, California Resolve: Emotional Support Animals After HUD’s Policy Reversal.” Featured speakers are Kara Brodfuehrer, Senior FEH Counsel with the California Civil Rights Department, and Michelle Uzeta, Executive Director of the Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund. Black-and-white headshots of both speakers appear against yellow backgrounds. The webinar takes place Tuesday, July 23, 2026, from 1:00–2:00 PM PT

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 12/06/2026

Please join us in welcoming DREDF's Summer 2026 interns: • Bowen Cho • Christian Choi • Phacelia Cramer • Jaina-Marie PeBenito • Khanstoshea Zingapan We're excited to have them with us to gain hands-on experience advancing disability rights. Learn more about them: dredf.org/people

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 10/06/2026

Text reads, “Let’s Talk About the Problem, an evening of conversation and connection with Dara Baldwin about her journey to become a disability activist and policymaker while facing the reality of the erasure of people of color in the disability rights movement. Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 5 to 8 pm PT at the Ed Roberts Campus and online." A portrait of Dara Baldwin, a black female with short hair, appears beside the cover of her book, 'To Be a Problem.'

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 05/06/2026

DREDF is proud to have co-authored an amicus brief with Fox & Robertson, joined by 8 allies, standing together to defend the right of people with disabilities to use the courts to challenge discrimination & secure access. Learn more: dredf.org/nad-v-trump-2026-amicus-b…

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

Future disability rights lawyers: DREDF is accepting candidates to support with application for fellowship sponsorship opportunities beginning in Fall 2027. Receive guidance in crafting a high quality application for disability civil rights legal advocacy work. Learn more: bit.ly/3Sf5PNJ

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Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund @dredf.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

Disabled tenants deserve safe, accessible housing. DREDF and the Eviction Defense Collaborative filed a lawsuit on behalf of disabled tenants in SF after accommodation requests were ignored. Read the press release: dredf.org/1086-post-press-release

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