Your Rights in California
California has some of the strongest disability protections in the country. Here are the main laws:
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Federal law requiring accessible businesses, government offices, and workplaces.
Unruh Civil Rights Act: California law guaranteeing "full and equal" access to all businesses and services.
Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA): Protects you from discrimination in jobs and housing. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations.
Lanterman Act: Gives people with developmental disabilities the right to services through Regional Centers.
Asking for Accommodations
A "reasonable accommodation" is a change that helps you participate equally. You can request them at work, school, or in housing. Examples include flexible schedules, accessible equipment, service animals in "no pets" buildings, or assigned parking spots.
How to ask:
1. Put your request in writing (email or letter)
2. Explain how your disability creates the need—you don't have to share your diagnosis
3. Keep copies of everything
4. Follow up if you don't hear back within two weeks
5. If denied, ask for the reason in writing—you may be able to appeal
If Your Rights Are Violated
Step 1: Document everything. Write down what happened, when, where, and who was involved. Save all emails and texts. Note any witnesses.
Step 2: Try to resolve it directly. Sometimes a calm conversation or letter explaining your rights solves the problem.
Step 3: Get help and file a complaint. If direct communication doesn't work, contact Disability Rights California or file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department.
Where to Get Free Help:
Disability Rights California (DRC)
DRC is California's official protection and advocacy organization. They provide free legal help, investigate rights violations, and have offices throughout the state. If you're not sure where to start, start here.
• Phone: 1-800-776-5746
• TTY: 1-800-719-5798
• Website: disabilityrightsca.org
Office of Clients' Rights Advocacy (OCRA)
Part of DRC—provides free advocacy for Regional Center clients.
• Phone: 1-800-390-7032
California Civil Rights Department
File complaints about discrimination in jobs, housing, or public places.
• Phone: 1-800-884-1684
• Website: calcivilrights.ca.gov
Independent Living Centers
28 centers across California offering peer support and advocacy help—run by and for people with disabilities.
• Find yours: cilnetwork.org/find-a-center
Tips for Effective Self-Advocacy
Be specific: Instead of "I need help," say exactly what you need and why.
Stay calm: Stick to facts—what happened, what law applies, what you're asking for.
Know your worth: You're not asking for special treatment. You're asking for equal access.
Build community: Connect with other advocates. There's power in numbers.
Don't give up: If your first request is denied, appeal. Many victories came from people who refused to accept "no."
Every time you speak up, you make things a little easier for the next person. California has a strong community of disability advocates—and you're part of it now.
Need Accessible Technology? California Connect provides free phones and assistive devices for Californians with disabilities. Visit caconnect.org or call 1-800-806-1191 (voice) or 1-800-806-4474 (TTY).
