Sandy uses a wheelchair and has recently moved into a new apartment.  Initially, Sandy was very excited about all of the amenities and features at her new residence.  Lately, however, she’s begun to notice some problems with getting around and accessing some of the features at her new place. Some of the doors are too heavy for Sandy to open; the light switches, electrical outlets and thermostats are too high for her to reach; and there’s not enough room to turn her chair around in the kitchen, making it difficult to use the stove and the sink.

        Luckily, as a member of the Equal Rights Center (ERC), Sandy knew who to call.  The ERC conducted civil rights tests to assess the level of accessibility in Sandy’s building and others owned by the same company.  Based on Sandy’s complaint and the results of these tests, the ERC contacted the building management and informed them of their legal obligations under the Fair Housing Act.  Ultimately, the ERC negotiated an agreement where the developer agreed to make changes to hundreds of apartments that had accessibility barriers. Through efforts like these, the ERC has made over 50,000 apartments across the country more accessible.

        Joined by its members, the ERC has helped advance disability rights across the country, and is a national leader in making housing and public accommodations more accessible. In addition to its work with housing developers, the organization has secured agreements with nationwide companies – such as CVS pharmacies, Subway restaurants, and Eye Care Centers of America -- so that their stores are more accessible for people with disabilities.

        None of this work could be done without ERC members. Whether alerting the ERC to existing discrimination, volunteering their time, providing financial support, or just staying informed about civil rights issues, ERC members play an important role in ending discrimination. With more than 3,000 members in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, the ERC and its members are dedicated to making civil rights for all a reality.

        To continue to grow this community, the ERC has embarked on The 50/50 Campaign, an exciting membership challenge: http://www.equalrightscenter.org/site/PageNavigator/5050CampaignLandingPage.html

        The 50/50 Campaign will introduce 500 new members to the ERC in just 50 days. Members are updated on civil rights issues through the ERC’s email listserv, newsletter, blog, social networks, and annual meeting, and are able to be involved in the ERC’s work. No financial commitment is required, just a genuine desire to creative positive social change. We need you to be part of the 50/50 campaign! Ask your networks, colleagues, friends and family to take a stand for civil rights by becoming a member of the ERC. If you are not yet a member, read more about what the ERC is doing to combat injustice and join the thousands who have already made a commitment to end discrimination.  

        Together, we can create a society where equal rights for all is a reality.

For more information go to: http://www.equalrightscenter.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ERC_homepage