{"id":5841,"date":"2025-08-14T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-14T18:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/?p=5841"},"modified":"2025-08-06T15:08:01","modified_gmt":"2025-08-06T23:08:01","slug":"how-at-supports-advocacy-the-persistent-complaint","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/abilitytools.org\/blog\/how-at-supports-advocacy-the-persistent-complaint\/","title":{"rendered":"How AT Supports Advocacy & the Persistent Complaint"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

This blog is based on a segment from the recent webinar presentation \u201cYour Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead.\u201d<\/a> The segment, titled \u201cSelf-Advocacy & The Art of the Persistent Complaint<\/em>,\u201d was presented by YO! Disabled & Proud staffer Jem Moore<\/strong> explored how self-advocacy, collective advocacy, and systemic change intersect and how AT can support each level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Back<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Self-Advocacy: Tech That Speaks for You<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Self-advocacy means asking for your needs to be met. It is the foundation for all forms of advocacy. Whether in school, at work, at home, or in the community, expressing your needs and preferences is essential. AT plays a vital role in helping individuals advocate for themselves in everyday life. This can include requesting accommodations, setting routines that support their independence, or simply making sure their voice is heard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are a few real-world examples of how AT enables self-advocacy:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

  1. Using speech-to-text to request accommodations:<\/strong> Speech-to-text software and apps<\/a> wether it is software like Dragon Naturally Speaking<\/a> or built-in features on devices these tools can help individuals communicate their needs clearly when submitting accommodation requests. They\u2019re also helpful for people who speak a different language than their provider or family, since the app can help translate or clarify what\u2019s being said.<\/li>
  2. Creating visual schedules or reminders with smart devices<\/strong>: Smart home tools like Amazon Alexa<\/a> support self-advocacy by helping people take charge of their daily routines. Setting reminders or building custom schedules is a way to speak up for your needs and stay organized. For step-by-step guidance on how to set up routines check out our Where It’s AT blog on Smart Home Device Setup: Using Multiple Routines<\/a> and our YouTube video on Basic Multiple Routine Example<\/a>.<\/li>
  3. Contacting a disability services office using a communication device<\/strong>: AAC devices<\/a> empower individuals with limited verbal communication to independently reach out to disability services offices and advocate for support.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \"Dragon<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
    \n
    \"Amazon<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
    \n
    \"GoTalk<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

    AT empowers people to show up and speak up in ways that reflect their unique communication needs, helping ensure that they are heard and understood while advocating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Collective Advocacy: Power in Numbers, Powered by Tech<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Collective advocacy starts when individuals realize their experiences aren\u2019t isolated but rather they\u2019re shared by many. Speaking up can feel intimidating alone, but with a community behind you, your voice becomes part of a larger movement. AT helps bridge the gap between individuals and collective action by making advocacy spaces more accessible, inclusive, and collaborative. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Here are a few examples of how AT enables individuals to connect and empower each other to act together:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    1. Accessible Online Platforms:<\/strong> Virtual platforms like Zoom with live captions<\/a>, accessible online communities, and inclusive social media tools allow advocates to gather and organize. To make these spaces truly inclusive, be sure to make your Word documents and PowerPoint presentations accessible. Check out our past webinars for step-by-step guidance in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.