Advocacy is an important part of achieving DHCC’s mission – to promote communication accessibility, equality and cultural awareness to the Deaf, hard of hearing and hearing communities. The staff at DHCC advocates for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in their efforts to participate fully in society. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is the legislation referred to most to support the provision of communication access.

There are two types of advocacy, personal and systemic advocacy.

Personal Advocacy
Personal advocacy assists an individual to obtain services that are his or her right under the law. At DHCC, personal advocacy is provided to assist a deaf or hard of hearing person to obtain communication access to a necessary service or for a technical device. DHCC staff intervenes with the hearing service provider (e.g. doctor, lawyer, etc.) and provides information about his/her responsibility under the ADA or other relevant legislation to provide access.

Systemic Advocacy
Systemic advocacy changes systems, services, and legislation in the cause of justice and human rights. For deaf and hard of hearing consumers, the goal is usually to improve access to services. Systemic advocacy activities include participation as a member of a coalition of many organizations working for a specific cause; working in partnership with deaf and hard of hearing consumer groups; responding to new legislation; etc.

If any place of public accommodation, such as a doctor’s office, educational institution, etc. rejects your request for a sign language interpreter for equal communication access, a DHCC staff member can contact the business to advocate for your needs. By explaining the hearing person’s responsibility under the ADA, DHCC can provide written material and/or direct the hearing person to the Internet for more information.

DHCC does not provide legal services; however, we can refer you to organizations that might further intervene on your behalf. If you desire, these organizations can help you take legal action. DHCC can also provide you with information on how to file a complaint under the ADA so you can advocate on your own. Please find further information on our Know Your Rights page.