People with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities1 (IDD) have the same right to, and responsibilities that accompany, self-determination as everyone else. They are entitled to opportunities, respectful support, and the authority to exert control in their lives, to direct their services, and to act on their own behalf. ISSUE Historically, many individuals with IDD have been […]
People with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities1 (IDD) have the right to advocate and/or be supported to act as self-advocates. Self-advocates exercise their rights as citizens by communicating for and representing themselves and others, with whatever supports they need. Self-advocates must have a meaningful role in decision-making in all areas of their daily lives and in […]
Physician-assisted suicide must be prohibited for people with intellectual disability1 (ID) due to the inherent risk of undue influence. ISSUE Physician-assisted suicide occurs when a physician provides a medical means for death, usually a prescription for a lethal amount of medication that the patient takes on his or her own2. As the nation, individual states, […]
All people have human rights and are entitled to the protection and benefits of the civil rights laws of their country. This includes people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities1 (IDD). They are entitled to exercise their rights and to have their human rights and civil rights respected. When their rights are violated, they are entitled […]
People with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities1 have the same basic legal, civil, and human rights as other citizens. They may need accommodation, protection, and support to enable them to exercise these rights. Their rights should never be limited or restricted without due process. ADVOCACY Advocacy is acting with or on behalf of an individual or […]
By Amy R. Tripp, Esq., Special Needs Alliance To say that adequate housing options for persons with disabilities is a challenge is an understatement. As a result, in the process of future planning, housing is almost always one of the most important topics. Some people with disabilities would like to continue living in the family […]
During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, The Arc celebrates the decision to allow Ryan King, a man with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD), to make his own decisions. According to a Washington Post column, Ryan King is a man in his 30s who was placed under the guardianship of his parents when he turned 18. For over 15 […]
By Neal A. Winston, CELA, Special Needs Alliance® There are many factors to consider when a family member is seeking legal compensation for personal injuries, whether they result from medical malpractice, a car or workplace accident, or some other mishap. Given the supports that an individual with disabilities might need throughout life, even large sums […]
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