Self-advocacy is a huge part of advocacy. As your child grows (or you grow!) it's important to guide them toward self-advocacy if possible/realistic for them!
Self-advocacy instruction can include:
Learning how to request accommodations, or services and supports;
Mentoring with educational staff such as principals, nurses, teachers, or office staff;
Learning about personal rights and responsibilities;
Peer mentoring from individuals with disabilities working in competitive integrated employment; and
Participating in youth leadership activities offered in educational or community settings.
Self-advocacy is also an immense part of independence, so as your child grows in independence, start thinking of ways to introduce these self-advocacy instructions at the same time!
When advocating for your child, friend, family member, or yourself, it can be easy to become angry, emotional, and irritated -- and rightfully so! I (and a lot of us) have been there. However, in order to most effectively advocate, it is crucial to remain calm and concise. To get your point across most efficiently, try to put the heavy emotions aside (I know, easier said than done). This is one of the most powerful pieces of advocacy advice, as advocating in this way is immensely powerful and WILL make change!
In the case that you need legal advocacy support, here are some local resources which may help you:
Ben Small - Local Disability Attorney (Website Link)
Phone: 1-218-724-9453
Ben helps clients nagivate the Social Security process as pertaining to those with disabilities.
Accessia Health (Medical Advocacy)
If you believe that you or someone else was discriminated against based on a disability, you can file an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complaint against:
a state government or local government, such as a:
public hospital
public school
other state or local government program
a private business that serves the public, such as a:
restaurant
doctor’s office
shop
hotel