10 Steps to Effective Self-Advocacy
from Disability Rights Florida
Prioritize your needs. Figure out your goals and stick to them. No one is more important than you are, and you are equally as important as everyone else. You may have heard that in an airplane emergency you need to put on your oxygen mask first before you can help anyone else, and that’s true.
Know your rights. It is your right to your information, to be free from harm, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to understand the laws that protect your rights. If you aren’t sure of your rights, ask for them to be explained to you in clear language by a qualified person.
Keep records. Keep accurate documentation in one safe place. Make sure you bring these documents with you when you need them.
Prepare & plan. Know your needs and your goals. Review these with yourself before appointments and big meetings.
Be assertive. Closed mouths don’t get fed, and no one can read your mind. You need to state what you want clearly and often, even if it makes you nervous.
Get decisions in writing. It’s remarkable how quickly people’s stories change once they need to take accountability for something. Get everything spoken about in writing with names, dates, and what was discussed. Then follow up.
Right to appeal. You have the right to challenge decisions you disagree with. Exercise that right.
Interim solutions. Some problems take a while to solve. Explore resources and services that can help you in the mean time. You may need to get creative.
Review documentation and confirm with all parties. People have a lot going on. Make sure you bring them back up to speed.
Follow up and keep it respectful. Stay on top of your deadlines, communicate clearly and often, and make sure you thank anybody who helped you in the process.
As always, get out there and do good.
