Category Archives: disability

a wheelchair accessible swing at a playground

A Playground for Everyone

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

That is why accessible playgrounds are so important. They are made so that more kids can play together. Some have ramps instead of stairs, swings with extra support, sensory toys, and smoother ground. These changes help more kids join in, instead of being left out.

ADA 36 anniversary logo celebrate July 26, 2026

36 Years of the ADA: Why It Still Matters

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

As we recognize this anniversary, we should also remember that the ADA only works when it is understood, respected, enforced, and upheld. Its protections affect real people in real ways every day. The ADA establishes the minimum standards required by law, but our goal should never be to do the bare minimum.

an abstract american flag with the words 2026 get ready to vote

Get Ready to Vote: Check Your Registration for Florida’s Primary Election

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Even if you have voted before, it is a good idea to check your registration information now. If you moved, changed your name, or need to update your signature, taking care of it before the deadline can help prevent problems later.

abstract american flag with the words 2026 check your registration and signature

Get Ready to Vote: Check Your Registration and Signature

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Many people register once and do not think about it again, but information can change over time. If you moved, changed your name, or your signature looks different than when you first registered, it is a good idea to update your information now.
Your signature is especially important. In some situations, election officials compare the signature on voting forms to the signature they have on file. If your signature has changed because of age, disability, illness, injury, or simply signing differently over time, updating it now may help you avoid problems later.

a woman sitting and holding a flower with a big smile on her face.

What Do You Have to Lose?

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

I didn’t get everything done correctly, but I exceeded my expectations and I met some amazing ladies in the cast, who I now call my angels. I am grateful to Phillip Church and his team, who brought us all together to bring Rebekah Taussig’s book to the theater.

a woman wearing a green sweater sitting outside

More Than a Role: Finding Strength on Stage

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

All I knew was, there was a part for a woman who used a wheelchair. Imagine that! The thought that there was an interest to recruit someone with a disability, specifically a woman with a disability!

an abstract american flag with the words 2026 Local Elections

Local Elections: Why They Matter in 2026

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Local elections are where change is most immediate and visible. When you vote, you are helping decide how your community is built, how services are delivered, and whether your community is inclusive and accessible. Your vote helps shape the place where you live every day.

Matt reading a book to a medically fragile child in a bed

A Landmark Decision Years in the Making

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

This month, the 11th Circuit made something clear: The ADA is violated not only when individuals are institutionalized, but also when state systems place them at serious risk of institutionalization.
The court recognized that systemic failures in providing services can be a form of discrimination.

infographic with an abstract american flag and the word s2026 state elections

State Elections: Why They Matter in 2026

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

State decisions have a direct impact on people with disabilities. These decisions affect access to health care and support services, funding for disability programs, and whether housing and transportation are accessible.

Justine standing and smiling with a picture of herself behind her

The View From Here (26-03)

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

For decades, disability advocacy has focused on access: access to buildings, transportation, education, employment and civic participation. Those efforts have opened doors that were once firmly closed. But, I believe, representation is what truly changes hearts and minds. It sends a message to those of us living with disabilities that You Belong Here Too. Not just in spaces that were designed specifically for you. But everywhere.

abstract american flag background and the words 2026 Federal Elections

Federal Elections: Why They Matter in 2026

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Federal elections directly affect the laws and programs that support people with disabilities. These decisions affect daily life, such as healthcare, housing, employment, education, and independence.
When Congress changes, priorities, funding, and protections can change. For people with disabilities, these choices matter.
Your vote helps shape the direction of federal policy and the future of disability rights.

logo for the social security administration

Benefits 26-03

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

So Why Work? Besides the obvious — earning more money — working brings so much more: It’s not about “losing benefits.” It’s about building a better future.

headshot of Justine wearing a black top and smiling at the camera

The View From Here (26-02)

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

For some time now, I have felt a quiet pull to more intentionally merge art with advocacy. This role is another step in doing just that. I truly feel that disability representation expands creativity. It brings depth, resilience, and a perspective that the world needs more of. Theater uniquely asks us not just to witness a story, but to feel it. And that is often the beginning of change.

image of an accessible path with a wheelchair logo painted on the path

From Miami to Los Angeles: Noticing Accessibility in a New Place

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

As many of you know, back in August, I moved to Los Angeles, California to attend the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) after spending my whole life being born and raised in Miami, Florida. Along with this move came plenty of culture shocks. I noticed the popularity of breakfast burritos, beaches with views of mountains, cliffside roads with breathtaking views, but most notably the advancements in disability accommodations in California, as opposed to Florida.

Pizza Night Collage Page Two

Update on DIG’s Supper Social Club

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

As we continued to meet, we watched people come out of their shells. Those same young adults who were once quiet began starting conversations, forming friendships, and looking forward to each event. Confidence grew. Laughter came easier. The Supper Social Club became more than dinner; it became a place of belonging.

Alfredo looking at the camera sitting in his wheelchair smiling

From Being a Number to Building Possibility

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

If you are navigating life with a disability, know this: Your path does not need to mirror anyone else’s to be meaningful. The journey is not about returning to who you were – it is about discovering who you can still become.

holiday graphic with gold bells a hannukah menorah a kwanza menorah a red background and green leaves in the corners

Happy Holidays 2025

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

DIG will continue to advocate, educate, and empower because every person deserves dignity, opportunity, and full participation in their community. Thank you for being part of our journey this year and being part of the DIG family.

justine sitting in her wheelchair under a sign that says radiation oncology

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Bridging the Screening Gap

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

I am forever grateful to my family doctor for pushing me to get that mammogram screening done. Early detection matters. My tumor was stage 2A and had it gone much longer, my outcome could have been much different.

blue and purple ribbon for national suicide awareness month

Be Kind, Always!

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, offer support, and educate society on suicide prevention. If you or anyone you know is struggling and needs support through a suicidal or mental health crisis, call the suicide and crisis lifeline at 988.

Jordan and three friends in front of a rock climbing wall

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month: A Personal Journey

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Working with Quad 13 has given my life a new purpose. My hope is that, by sharing my story, you feel inspired to join our mission—whether by sharing a conversation, wearing a lime green ribbon, or supporting the cause.