All People Have Dignity and Worth

The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act that created protection and advocacy organizations puts forth the following values:

• Disability is a natural part of the human experience
• Disability does not diminish the right to live independently or to exert control and choice in your life
• Because people with disabilities are at a greater risk for abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violation of legal and human rights, protection and advocacy organizations like Disability Rights Texas are needed

At Disability Rights Texas, we have a vision of a society where all people have worth and dignity. People with disabilities have basic human needs that are no different from those of all people. They have a right to freedom from neglect, exploitation, discrimination and isolation, and a right to be included in all aspects of their communities.

In this society, people with disabilities:

• Speak and act for themselves, are self-determined, represent their own interests, make decisions, and take risks based on their own goals and values
• Have access to health and human services that meet basic needs and have equal access to employment, independent living, and economic and social self-sufficiency
• Live free of abuse, neglect, financial and sexual exploitation, and violation of their legal and human rights
• Have the right to legal representation and due process of law before any legal rights are restricted

Special Op Ed

Liz Newhouse, a former DRTx board member, has written the following thought-provoking opinion piece that underscores the importance of supporting all members of our communities.

Liz Newhouse OpEd