Our Advocacy

As COVID-19 continues to impact all people in Rhode Island and the country, Disability Rights Rhode Island (DRRI) remains dedicated to our mission to protect and advocate for the rights, safety, and well-being of people with disabilities. We are doing what is necessary to continue our work serving people with disabilities in Rhode Island while protecting the health and safety of our staff and clients.

Below please find updates and information on our continued efforts to uphold the rights of our community during this public health crisis.

January 13, 2021: DRRI/DD Council Letter to Gov. Raimondo to prioritize COVID-19 vaccinations for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Rhode Island

December 2, 2020: DRRI Letter to Gov. Raimondo regarding access to care in hospitals

June 17, 2020: DRRI Letter to Rhode Island Department of Health addressing violations of hospital visitation policy for individuals with disabilities

May 19, 2020: DRRI Letter to Rhode Island Department of Health seeking consideration and revision of Crisis Standards of Care Guidelines to ensure the equitable treatment of people with disabilities

April 22, 2020: DRRI Letter to Gov. Raimondo and Rhode Island Department of Health responding to Crisis Standards of Care language

April 18, 2020: DRRI Letter to Gov. Raimondo and Rhode Island Department of Health requesting Crisis Standards of Care language

April 14, 2020: DRRI Letter to Rhode Island Department of Health urging the adoption of a statewide policy on hospital visitors for people living with disabilities during the public health crisis

March 30, 2020: DRRI Letter to Gov. Raimondo to ensure that people with disabilities are not discriminated against in treatment planning guidelines or policies during COVID-19