Voices For Independence speaks out for the equality and civil rights of people with disabilities. Voices works to teach people with disabilities how to become their own voice using either individual or group advocacy techniques. Consumer may be afraid or may not understand how to stand up for their civil rights. Before advocacy efforts, something as simple as crossing the street or having access to public places was not possible. Since 1993, Voices has made advocacy a primary concern. Without basic freedoms in place, it’s very hard to implement other core services.
VFI’s past successes in advocacy include:
- Working with contractors and landlords regarding accessible housing
- Increasing the number of restrooms and widening the entryways of several government buildings and businesses
- Calling for change to issues surrounding public mass transit/paratransit
- Going to court to fight for curb cuts in Erie and surrounding communities
- Collaborating with the Erie County Convention Authority on the renovations to Erie Insurance Arena (pictured above)
The VFI Advocacy department knows the law and is an excellent resource for those attempting to fully understand the rights of the disability community. Our team has an excellent track record for giving a voice to the consumers they serve when their civil rights are violated.
If you would like further information about our Advocacy Services please call the office or contact us today.
If you are not yet registered to vote, click here to be taken to an online voter registration.
Recommended Resources
- ADAPT is a national grass-roots community that organizes disability rights activists to engage in nonviolent direct action, including civil disobedience, to assure the civil and human rights of people with disabilities to live in freedom.
