Organization
Disability Rights California(DRC)
The largest disability rights organization in the United States, Disability Rights California is California's federally mandated Protection and Advocacy (P&A) system, serving people with all types of disabilities statewide. Founded in 1978, DRC defends, advances, and strengthens the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities through legal advocacy, education, and systemic reform.
About
Disability Rights California (DRC) was founded in 1978 and serves as California's federally designated Protection and Advocacy (P&A) agency. As the nation's largest disability rights organization, DRC has offices throughout the state and a history of landmark civil rights victories for Californians with disabilities.
What They Do
DRC provides free legal services, investigates abuse and neglect in facilities, advocates in state and federal legislative arenas, and trains individuals with disabilities to self-advocate. They litigate complex civil rights cases, monitor institutions, and publish accessible legal guides to help Californians understand and assert their rights.
Who They Serve
DRC serves people with all types of disabilities in California, including physical, cognitive, psychiatric, and sensory disabilities. Priority is given to those who are incarcerated, institutionalized, or at risk of losing community independence.
Related Organizations
National Disability Rights Network(NDRN)
FeaturedWashington, DCNationalNDRN is the membership association for the federally mandated Protection & Advocacy (P&A) and Client Assistance Program (CAP) organisations in every US state and territory. P&A organisations provide free legal advocacy and representation to people with disabilities — with a combined budget of over $150 million, they are the largest provider of legal services to people with disabilities in the US.
Mixed LeadershipCross-DisabilityLegal AdvocacyDisability Rights Advocates(DRA)
Oakland, CANationalDRA is a national non-profit legal centre that enforces civil rights for people with all types of disabilities through impact litigation — targeting systemic barriers and setting precedents that benefit entire communities rather than individual clients.
Mixed LeadershipCross-DisabilityLegal AdvocacyAmerican Association of People with Disabilities(AAPD)
Washington, DCNationalAAPD is a national disability membership organisation focused on increasing the political and economic power of people with disabilities, with a particular emphasis on civic engagement, voting rights, and economic advancement.
Disabled-LedCross-DisabilityAdvocacy