All disabled people have the right to participate in political and public life on an equal basis with others, as affirmed by Article 29 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This page centers disabled people's expertise and is informed by disabled-led policy victories around the world.
Policy advocacy focuses on changing laws, regulations, funding structures, and government programs. Disabled people have shaped major legislation—including Section 504, the ADA, IDEA, and the CRPD—through organized, strategic policy work.
Policy advocacy can include:
You don't need to be a lawyer to participate in policy advocacy. Many of the most effective disability policy advocates have been disabled people sharing their lived experience.
Policy decisions affecting disabled people happen at multiple levels:
Each level has different processes, timelines, and leverage points. Local advocacy often produces faster results, while federal advocacy can create broader impact.
Identify the issue you care about most
Research the current law and how it affects disabled people
Find allies and coalitions already working on the issue
Prepare clear talking points that connect personal experience to policy
Request a meeting or submit written testimony
Follow up consistently—policy change rarely happens in one meeting
Track implementation once changes are made
Whether you're writing an email, letter, or testimony, effective policy communication includes:
Keep communications concise. Policymakers and their staff read hundreds of messages—clarity matters.
Dear [Title] [Last Name],
I am writing as a [constituent/disabled person/advocate] to ask you to [specific action] on [bill number/policy issue].
[1-2 sentences about how this affects you or disabled people in your community]
[1-2 sentences about why this matters]
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further. Please contact me at [email/phone].
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your city/town]
Public hearings offer opportunities to share disabled people's perspectives directly with decision-makers.
Policy victories usually require coalitions. Effective coalition work involves:
Cross-disability coalitions have been essential to major policy wins, from the 504 Sit-In to the ADA.
This page centers disabled people's expertise and is informed by disabled-led organizing globally. For questions or to suggest additions, see How to Contribute.