Author Archives: Tamara Hervera
World Mental Health Day: You Are Not Alone, and Your Story Matters
Today, October 10, is World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme from the World Federation for Mental Health is “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.” We love that theme, because it says something we believe deeply: people who live with mental health conditions know best what they need. So if you’re struggling right… Read More »
Why the Communications and Video Accessibility Act Still Matters
Sixteen years ago this week, a law called the CVAA was signed. It’s one of the reasons people with disabilities can use many of today’s phones, video services, and TV menus. Technology has changed a lot since then, and the law is a good reminder of why access has to keep up. Think about… Read More »
Why the ADA Amendments Act Still Matters
On September 25, 2008, President George W. Bush signed the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) into law. The law took effect on January 1, 2009, and strengthened one of our nation’s most important civil rights laws for people with disabilities, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADAAA did not create a new disability rights… Read More »
A Celebration of Partnership and Community
Last week, friends and partners gathered at the Marian Center to celebrate the retirement of Advocacy Network on Disabilities CEO Ire Diaz and to recognize the strong, longstanding partnership between the two organizations. Founded in 1963, the Marian Center has provided education, residential, and adult services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for… Read More »
The Tech Act of 1988: How Technology Opened New Doors for People with Disabilities
On August 19, 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act, better known as the Tech Act. While it may not be as widely recognized as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Tech Act changed lives by helping people with disabilities gain access to technology that supports independence,… Read More »
Advocacy Network on Disabilities was proud to be part of the Miami HEAT’s Back-to-School event!
WPLG Local 10Clay Ferraro Miami Heat host students for annual back-to-school shopping spree The Miami Heat are helping students prepare for the upcoming new school year. There’s nothing better than seeing students head into a new school year feeling prepared, confident, and excited. We were honored to join the Miami HEAT, community partners, and… Read More »
The Architectural Barriers Act: The Law That Opened America’s Doors
The Architectural Barriers Act: The Law That Opened America’s Doors August 12, 1968 marked a turning point in disability rights history. On that day, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) into law, becoming the first federal law to require that certain public buildings be accessible to people with disabilities. Today,… Read More »
Disability Rights in a Changing Climate: Why Inclusive Emergency Planning Matters More Than Ever
Climate change is changing the way we think about emergency preparedness. Stronger hurricanes, extreme heat, flooding, wildfire smoke, and power outages are becoming more common across the country—and Florida is no exception. But while these events affect everyone, they do not affect everyone equally. For people with disabilities, a disaster can create additional barriers… Read More »
Disability Rights in a Changing Climate: Why Inclusive Emergency Planning Matters More Than Ever
Climate change is causing more hurricanes, flooding, extreme heat, and power outages. These emergencies affect everyone, but people with disabilities often face extra challenges because of barriers in transportation, communication, shelters, and access to medical equipment or support services. Disability does not make someone more vulnerable. Many risks come from emergency systems that are… Read More »
Advocacy Network on Disabilities Completes Trauma Initiative Cohort #9
The Advocacy Network on Disabilities is proud to announce the completion of its 18-month participation in the Children’s Services Council Trauma Initiative Cohort #9. During this initiative, our team looked at new ways to better support our staff and the individuals and families we serve. Our goal was to become a more trauma-informed organization…. Read More »
