[WLCDR-Announce] Online Update - 08/23/01
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WESTERN LAW CENTER FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS
ONLINE UPDATE
Volume 1, Number 13 -- Thursday, August 23, 2001
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^
Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq.
Editor
Protecting the Possibilities since 1975
http://www.wlcdr.org
(c) Western Law Center for Disability Rights, 2001. All Rights
Reserved.
IN THIS ISSUE:
1. NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:
OF ELEPHANTS, FLEAS, AND THE ATTITUDES OF THE DISABILITY
COMMUNITY
2. LITIGATION UPDATE:
KOREAN STUDENT ENSURES ACCESS FOR THE BLIND IN THE
KOREAN COMMUNITY
3. WESTERN LAW CENTER ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH
COMPLETE ACCESS AND THE DEPARTMENT ON DISABILITY
OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES
4. PARTNERSHIP IN PROGRESS:
ACTION SUMMARY FROM THE DISABILITY RIGHTS
ROUNDTABLE ON THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
5. ONLINE TIMELINE
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D
1. NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:
OF ELEPHANTS, FLEAS, AND THE
ATTITUDES OF THE DISABILITY COMMUNITY
Nature is a wonderous marvel. Ever stop to look around you to see th=
e
great differences in the living things that populate the Earth? Some
creatures are large while others are small.
Take, for instance, the elephant, the largest living land mammal, fou=
nd
in tropical regions of Africa and Asia. According to the Encyclopedi=
a,
"Elephants are browsing animals, feeding on fruits, leaves, shoots, a=
nd
tall grasses. They consume hundreds of pounds of food a day and drin=
k
up to 50 gallons of water. They have no fixed living place but travel
about in herds of up to 100 animals ... Elephants walk at a pace of
about 6.4 kilometers per hour but can charge at speeds of 48 km per
hour. They cannot jump and so cannot pass barriers too wide or too h=
igh
to step over; they swim well, however."
By contrast, fleas are among the smallest of creatures. Opposite fro=
m
the abilities of the elephant, their legs "are powerful and adapted f=
or
fast movement and jumping."
In spite of the great differences between the elephant and the flea,
both have something in common -- they may be conditioned. Note above
how elephants have the ability to charge at great speeds. They may
therefore run from predators when the need arises. Circuses, however=
,
have learned (rightly or wrongly) to condition elephants not to run
away. They place on the elephants a chain that is attached to a larg=
e
and immovable fixture. At first, elephants try to break away.
Eventually, because they find their attempts to be in vain, they give=
up
and no longer try to break free. Once so conditioned, even when circ=
us
trainers attach the elephants to a chain that itself is no longer tie=
d
to a strong fixture, the elephants do not try to break free, even whe=
n
all it would take is for them simply to give the chain a strong tug,
something perfectly within their abilities.
By the same token, the flea may be equally conditioned. Fleas may ju=
mp
as high as six feet or more. Yet, when placed in a sealed glass jar,
even the most determined flea will cease to try to jump out of the ja=
r
if it consistently hits its head in the process. As a result, over
time, even if the jar cover is removed altogether, the fleas will not
escape the jar, because they will have learned a behavior that has
conditioned them to jump high but not SO high that they will hit wher=
e
the cover was once placed.
In some respects, we are no different than the elephant and the flea.
To a significant extent, we, too, are conditioned by our environment.
We have been subjected to various constraints that have shaped our go=
als
and expectations -- indeed, the very core of who we are as individual=
s.
Based on our own personal experiences of what either works or does no=
t
work, we either expand our possibilities or limit our thinking. We m=
ay
even do some of each simultaneously within various facets of our live=
s.
Quite literally for generations, we as members of the disability
community have been conditioned. In times past, dominantly prevailin=
g
has been the attitude that we as people with disabilities are inheren=
tly
less capable than others. Hence, according to this way of thinking,
logic dictates that we must be cared for from cradle to grave, and th=
e
role of society should be to make our lives as comfortable as possibl=
e
under the debilitating circumstances surrounding the reality of havin=
g a
disability. Reciprocally, according to this view, we as people with
disabilities should be grateful for society's benevolence in taking s=
uch
a noble course of action by caring for those who are necessarily less
fortunate by virtue of having a disability. Under this way of thinki=
ng,
any individual who accomplishes even the smallest of daily tasks is
somehow seen as being extraordinarily gifted for "beating the odds."
People with disabilities once took on these beliefs themselves. To
strive to undertake higher goals would be unthinkable and indeed woul=
d
be considered extremely unrealistic. Those who have gone before us h=
ave
had to battle hard against the old and outdated stereotypes that
relegated people with disabilities to mere second class status. Like
the elephant and the flea, our pioneers had to withstand resistence, =
not
only from the general population but even from people with disabiliti=
es
themselves who embodied the limiting notions that governed their dail=
y
existence. People with disabilities, themselves part of society, onc=
e
reasoned out how there was simply no way to move ahead. Like the
elephant and the flea, they have tried and tried to break free but wi=
th
no real success. In their case, their chain was the prevailing negat=
ive
societal attitude about disability, and their jar cover was the lack =
of
real opportunity to move forward.
Still, there are those of us who continue to strive to change the
prevailing notions of the past. We have endeavored to free ourselves
=66rom the ways of thinking that limited our horizons and stifled our
growth. We have taken that extra step to break free. Following the
examples of leaders who have gone before us, we have decided to stop =
the
perennial cycle in which limited beliefs led to limited action which
consequently reaffirmed and solidified the limited beliefs. We as th=
e
disability community now realize our true individual and collective
power and potential, and we are tapping into this endless source of
creativity, talent, drive, fortitude, and determination. Our lives
exemplify a break with past generational behavior and, rather than
simply being conditioned by the rest of the world, we are endeavoring=
to
DO the conditioning by working with colleagues to strengthen belief i=
n
ourselves and engaging in activism that sends the world the unmistaka=
ble
message that we as the disability community WILL be heard and WILL
determine for ourselves the course of our own lives. We are breaking
with the past by striving for a future in which equality is the rule
rather than the exception. Like the elephant, we will proverbially
charge ahead at 48 kilometers an hour and beyond. But, because of ou=
r
spirit of self-determination, we will not be running FROM the predato=
r
of limited belief but TOWARD a world in which we are seen as equal in
every way to those without disabilities. We also continue to work ha=
rd
to change flea-minded thinking that has held us back. We will jump t=
o
heights hundreds of times our size. In short, WE will be the ones to
set the stage for our ultimate tomorrow!
Removal of physical, program, and attitudinal barriers is the key and=
,
because different situations call for different strategies, we at the
Western Law Center for Disability Rights will continue utilizing a
number of strategies to improving the quality of life for people with
disabilities. Our litigation against three bus companies for their
refusal to transport a person with a guide dog is one example, and so=
is
our strategic partnership with Complete Access and the Department on
Disability of the City of Los Angeles to work with businesses and
community-based organizations. The Center's work within the criminal
justice system context provides yet another avenue for instituting
change. This issue of the Online Update will tell readers about all
these things and will conclude with the Online Timeline, which will
alert the disability community to various upcoming meetings and event=
s,
sponsored or co-sponsored by the Center.
Unlike the experience of the elephant and the flea, we will remain
vigilent to our cause, no matter how many times forces seek to hold u=
s
back. We will NEVER relinquish what we have discovered --
self-empowerment! Most important of all, we will move forward togeth=
er
in a spirit of unity and unwaivering confidence in what the future ha=
s
in store. With the positive view that we will ultimately prevail, we
will never cease in our efforts until full participation in society i=
s
finally ours!
******************************
2. LITIGATION UPDATE:
KOREAN STUDENT ENSURES ACCESS FOR THE BLIND
IN THE KOREAN COMMUNITY
The Western Law Center for Disability Rights recently reached a
settlement with three Korean-owned travel companies specializing in
Korean tourism ensuring that blind individuals are allowed on their t=
our
buses, as the law requires. The tour bus companies, Samho Tour, Inc.=
,
Hanin Travel, and A-Ju Tours, Inc., agreed to take steps to ensure th=
at
blind customers who use guide dogs will receive the same treatment as
the general public. The agreement reached between the tour companies
and Dae Hwan (David) Choi, a student, came after Mr. Choi sued the
companies for failing to take his reservation, and in one case demand=
ing
that he get off a tour bus with his guide dog.
The incidents occurred in March 1999, when Mr. Choi=92s parents came =
to
visit from Korea. Mr. Choi tried to arrange a tour of the Grand Cany=
on
for himself and his parents. Hanin Travel and A-Ju Tours refused to
take his reservations because they would not allow his guide dog on
their buses. Samho tour took the reservation. However, when the Cho=
i=92s
arrived for the tour, employees made them get off the bus because of =
the
dog, embarrassing them in front of the other passengers.
California laws, including the Blind and Disabled Person=92s Act and =
Unruh
Civil Rights Act, and the federal Americans with Disabilities Act,
require that guide dogs be allowed in all public places, including to=
ur
buses. The settlement calls for the tour bus companies to train the=
ir
staff to accommodate travelers with disabilities, including those usi=
ng
guide dogs, to nclude statements in their advertising welcoming
travelers with disabilities, and to pay Mr. Choi damages and attorney=
s=92
fees.
=93My guide dog is not a pet =96 he is essential for me to navigate i=
n the
world. I was very disappointed when I was not allowed on the tours w=
ith
my guide dog. I came to the United States hoping to find equality an=
d
equal rights. I think that these settlements now provide people with
disabilities equal access to public facilities like everyone else.
Finally I have the equality I was looking for when I came to the Unit=
ed
States,=94 said Mr. Choi.
There are approximately 80,000 blind people in California, a signific=
ant
percentage of whom use guide dogs. The agreement reached will result=
in
these travel companies improving the training and monitoring of
employees about the rights of persons with disabilities, including th=
e
absolute right to be accompanied by a guide dog.
=93This is a widespread problem for guide dog users in California and
elsewhere,=94 said Eve L. Hill, Executive Director of the Western Law
Center for Disability Rights. =93Korean and other businesses need to
train their employees that people with disabilities cannot be exclude=
d
or harassed because of their service animals. These agreements are a
step in the right direction and we hope other companies will follow
suit,=94 Hill added.
=93This case is important because it demonstrates the absolute right =
of a
person with a disability to be accompanied by a service animal at all
times=94, stated Paula Pearlman, the Western Law Center's Director of
Litigation and one of the attorneys representing Mr. Choi.
******************************
3. WESTERN LAW CENTER ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH
COMPLETE ACCESS AND THE DEPARTMENT ON DISABILITY
OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES
Physical accessibility for people with disabilities must remain a top
priority within our community. The current and widespread absence of
legal enforcement requires that we as community activists =96 consist=
ing
both of people with and without disabilities alike =96 must come toge=
ther
to address this pressing problem. Through a new and innovative
partnership, we at the Western Law Center for Disability Rights belie=
ve
that physical accessibility within places of public accommodation wil=
l
now become a reality more than ever!
We at the Western Law Center are proud to announce that we have joine=
d
forces with Complete Access and the Department on Disability of the C=
ity
of Los Angeles to help create a unique public-private partnership. T=
his
project will unite people with disabilities and leaders of the busine=
ss
community for the purpose of enhancing physical accessibility in a wa=
y
that will be mutually advantageous to all involved. Complete Access =
has
played a significant leadership role through its groundbreaking event=
in
October 2000 called =93A F.I.N.E. Day with Spare Parts=94 in which pe=
ople
who use wheelchairs may have their equipment repaired at no charge ot=
her
than the cost of parts. Last year, numerous organizations and activi=
sts
participated. This year, through an event called =93Hard Hats / Kind
Hearts,=94 Complete Access will build upon last year=92s success by a=
dding a
new component in which disability rights advocates and business owner=
s
will work together on barrier removal issues.
Mark your calendar for Tuesday, October 16, 2001 from 11:00 a.m. to 5=
:00
p.m., and come to the Los Angeles Convention Center to take part in a=
n
event of unprecedented proportions!
The event will feature:
* Organizatioanl information booths that range in focus from lega=
l
advocacy, to social services, to private ventures =96 all focused on =
the
disability community
* A brand new opportunity to participate in the Local Action Team=
,
which will devote its attention to working in partnership with privat=
e
business to remove current physical barriers -- more EXCITING details=
to
come
* The availability of technicians to repair wheelchairs at NO lab=
or
costs to the wheelchair user
* A seminar on self-advocacy, specifically tailored to enhancing
physical accessibility
` * =85 And MUCH MUCH more!
There are numerous ways to get personally involved. You can:
* Have your organization co-sponsor the event by contributing
monetarily to the day=92s efforts.
* Staff an information booth for your organization.
* Volunteer on site to assist with logistics and plan
implementation.
* Assist in promoting the event among colleagues and friends.
The Western Law Center is proud to join with Complete Access and the
Department on Disability of the City of Los Angeles in enhancing
physical accessibility within the private sector, and we invite you t=
o
join us as we move forward to make complete physical accessibility a
reality for the Los Angeles disability community.
To RSVP for the event, contact Sophie Anderson at Complete Access at
(310) 575-4020 (voice) or Richard Ray at the Deparment on Disability =
at
(213) 847-6560 (TDD). For tracking purposes, please mention that you
heard about the event through the Online Update.
******************************
4. PARTNERSHIP IN PROGRESS:
ACTION SUMMARY FROM THE DISABILITY RIGHTS
ROUNDTABLE ON THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
Coordinated by the
WESTERN LAW CENTER FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS
In Conjunction With
AMERICAN CIVIL LIBERTIES UNION OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY SERVICES
PROTECTION AND ADVOCACY, INC.
Action Summary
Monday, May 14, 2001; Monday, June 4, 2001 (Conbined)
I. Introduction
In order best to establish an accurate and complete understanding of
current training programs offered to members of law enforcement here =
in
California as a basis for determining how to modify that training to
enhance understanding of issues affecting people with disabilities, t=
he
Disability Rights Roundtable on the Criminal Justice System has devot=
ed
concentrated energy to learning more about the efforts and activities=
of
the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training
(POST). Founded in 1959 and currently consisting of more than 580
member agencies, the stated mission of the organization is =93to
continually enhance the professionalism of California law enforcement=
in
serving its communities.=94
Under AB 1718 (2000), POST is statutorily charged with the
responsibility of training members of law enforcement on how better t=
o
interact with people with mental and developmental disabilities, abid=
ing
by specific requirements as defined under California Penal Code Secti=
on
1325 (see Action Summary, dated Tuesday, March 6, 2001).
The Roundtable finds it particularly noteworthy that, in a piece
entitled =93Legislation of Interest=94 on Page 7 of the January-Febru=
ary
2000 edition of POST Scripts (Volume 2, Number 4), while the passage =
of
AB 1718 was still pending, POST stood in opposition to the bill. He=
re
is what the publication said:
------------------------------
AB 1718 (Hertzberg): Peace Officers: Advanced Training: Mental
Illness
This bill would require every police officer or deputy sheriff at a
supervisory level or below who is assigned field or investigative dut=
ies
to complete, every four years after being assigned field or
investigative duties, an advanced training course in the handling of
persons with developmental disabilities or mental illness, or both, a=
s
specified.
Commission Position: Oppose, unless amended.
------------------------------
In spite of this, the Roundtable will endeavor to forge an alliance w=
ith
POST as it moves forward with its work in light of its legislative
mandate. The Roundtable will seek to ensure that POST=92s programs
appropriately reflect the needs of the disability community.
According to POST, =93Recognizing that effective law enforcement is t=
he
cornerstone of a free and safe society, POST is committed to a vision=
of
the future that ensures quality, integrity, accountability, and
cooperation; encourages new ideas; explores and uses appropriate
technologies; and delivers relevant, client-based programs and
services.=94 POST strives for high and worthy goals =96 ideals that t=
he
Roundtable stands ready to assist in helping POST to fulfill. It is =
in
this spirit of partnership that the Roundtable will seek ultimately t=
o
have the views of the disability community attentively heard and
meaningfully addressed.
II. POST: Assessment and Commentary
A. Existing Laws Requiring Disability-Related Training of California
Peace Officers
According to California Penal Code Section 13519.2, training of law
enforcement personnel on disability issues is not something new. In
fact, this requirement has been in place for more than 10 years. See=
:
http://www.post.ca.gov/pubs/pam/a-law.doc
(Word document, Page 23 - size 136,192 bytes - 5/2/01 6:22:48 PM GMT)
------------------------------
SECTION 13519.2 =96 PERSONS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND/OR ME=
NTAL
ILLNESS, TRAINING COURSE, AND GUIDELINES.
(a) The commission shall, on or before July 1, 1990, include in the
basic training course for law enforcement officers, adequate instruct=
ion
in the handling of persons with developmental disabilities or mental
illness, or both. Officers who complete the basic training prior to
July 1, 1990, shall participate in supplementary training on this
topic. This supplementary training shall be completed on or before J=
uly
1, 1992. Further training courses to update this instruction shall b=
e
established, as deemed necessary by the commission.
(b) The course of instruction relating to the handling of
developmentally disabled or mentally ill persons shall be developed b=
y
the commission in consultation with appropriate groups and individual=
s
having an interest and expertise in this area. In addition to provid=
ing
instruction on the handling of these persons, the course shall also
include information on the cause and nature of developmental
disabilities and mental illness, as well as the community resources
available to serve these persons.
------------------------------
As such, Section B of the POST Administrative Manual, through the
California Code of Regulations, under Title 11, Subdivision 2, Sectio=
n
1081(a)(7) set forth the scope of the training and guidelines as
follows:
http://www.post.ca.gov/pubs/pam/b-regulations.doc
(Word document, Page 36 - size 305,152 bytes - 5/2/01 6:22:49 PM GM=
T)
------------------------------
SECTION 1081 =96 MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR LEGISLATIVELY-MANDATED COURSES=
.
(a)(7) Developmental Disabilities and Mental Illness - 4 Hours
(A) Legal Requirements for Taking Person Into Custody
(B) Mental Health/Regional Center Referral Resources
(C) Practical Exercises
(D)*Identification of Primary Disability or Problem
(E)* Causes, Nature and Behavior Factors of Mental Illness
(F)* Causes, Nature and Behavior Factors of Developmental
Disabilities
(G)*Procedures Required for Detention Under Authority of section
5150, Welfare and Institutions Code
(H) Alternate Methods for Handling Developmentally Disabled or
Mentally Ill
*For in-service officers completing basic training prior to 7-1-90=
,
supplementary training consists of 2 hours emphasizing the indicated
topics.
------------------------------
Consequently, as POST has sought to meet its statutory obligations, i=
ts
compliance has taken on practical form as =93Basic Course LD37,=94 wh=
ich
discusses a wide range of pertinent topics, in the =93Cognitive Workb=
ook
Enabling Objectives for the Regular Basic Course,=94 found at:
http://www.post.ca.gov/train/eodoc07.doc
(Word document, Page 89-92 - size 412,672 bytes - 7/9/01 5:09:27 PM
GMT)
The workbook lists the Enabling Objectives (or EO=92s) as follows:
------------------------------
Persons with Disabilities
37.01.EO01 Define the term disability.
37.01.EO02 Identify the key provisions that impact on law enforceme=
nt
of the following federal and state laws enacted to protect the rights=
of
persons with disabilities including Americans with Disabilities Act.
37.01.EO03 Identify the key provisions that impact on law enforcement=
of
the following federal and state laws enacted to protect the rights of
persons with disabilities including Lanterman Developmental Disabilit=
ies
Service Act (WIC 4500 et seq.).
37.01.EO04 Identify the key provisions that impact on law enforcement=
of
the following federal and state laws enacted to protect the rights of
persons with disabilities including Lanterman-Petris-Short Act (WIC
5150).
37.01.EO05 Recognize indicators that could lead an officer to believe
that an individual is: A danger to self.
37.01.EO06 Recognize indicators that could lead an officer to believ=
e
that an individual is: Dangerous to others.
37.01.EO07 Recognize indicators that could lead an officer to believ=
e
that an individual is:Gravely disabled.
37.01.EO08 Identify the explicit elements of probable cause as it
applies to WIC Section 5150.
37.01.EO09 Recognize appropriate procedures for protecting the right=
s
of persons detained under Welfare and Institutions Code Section 5150.
37.01.EO10 Identify specific provisions of the law which apply to
persons with disabilities and public access.
37.01.EO11 Identify specific provisions of the law which apply to
persons with disabilities and the use of service animals.
37.01.EO12 Recognize the role of peace officers when interacting wit=
h a
person with a disability.
37.02.EO01 Define the term mental disorder.
37.02.EO02 Identify the two categories of mental disorder as: Thoug=
ht
disorders.
37.02.EO03 Identify the two categories of mental disorder as Mood
disorders.
37.02.EO04 Recognize behavioral cues that may be generally associated
with persons affected by mental disorders.
37.02.EO05 Identify indicators officers can use when attempting to
determine if persons affected by mental disorders are dangerous.
37.02.EO06 Recognize appropriate tactical measures when responding to=
a
call involving a person with a mental disorder.
37.02.EO07 Differentiate between the courses of actions for peace
officers when dealing with a person who appears to be affected by a
mental disorder and is: Dangerous or gravely disabled.
37.02.EO08 Differentiate between the courses of actions for peace
officers when dealing with a person who appears to be affected by a
mental disorder and is: NOT dangerous or gravely disabled.
37.02.EO09 Recognize behavioral cues that may be associated with a
person who appears to be affected by postpartum psychosis.
37.02.EO10 Identify the courses of actions for peace officers when
dealing with a person who appears to be affected by a postpartum
psychosis.
37.03.EO01 Recognize behavioral cues or other indicators that lead an
officer to identify a person as being: Deaf or hearing impaired.
37.03.EO02 Recognize behavioral cues or other indicators that lead an
officer to identify a person as being: Blind or visually impaired.
37.03.EO03 Identify appropriate methods an officer can use to
communicate with a person who is: Deaf or hearing impaired.
37.03.EO04 Identify appropriate methods an officer can use to
communicate with a person who is: Blind or visually impaired.
37.03.EO05 Recognize behavioral cues generally associated with person=
s
with: Acquired neurologically-based disorders such as Alzheimer=92s
disease or stroke.
37.03.EO06 Recognize behavioral cues generally associated with person=
s
with: Traumatic neurologically-based disorders.
37.03.EO07 Identify appropriate peace officer actions when dealing wi=
th
a person who appears to have a neurologically-based disorder.
37.04.EO01 Define the term developmental disability.
37.04.EO02 Recognizing behavioral cues generally associated with pers=
ons
affected by: Mental retardation.
37.04.EO03 Recognize behavioral cues generally associated with person=
s
affected by: Cerebral palsy.
37.04.EO04 Recognize behavioral cues generally associated with person=
s
affected by: Autism.
37.04.EO05 Identify appropriate peace officer actions during field
contacts with persons affected by developmental disorders.
37.04.EO06 Recognize behavioral cues that indicate a person under str=
ess
may be susceptible to epileptic seizures.
37.04.EO07 Recognize behavioral cues that indicate an individual is
experiencing: A tonic clonic seizure.
37.04.EO08 Recognize behavioral cues that indicate an individual is
experiencing: A complex partial seizure.
37.04.EO09 Identify appropriate officer response for aiding a person
experiencing a seizure.
------------------------------
B. Training Programs Already In Place
POST has devoted some time to issues surrounding interaction with peo=
ple
with developmental and mental disabilities =96 both victims and
perpetrators. But, more must be done as AB 1718 is implemented. For
now, though, the Roundtable has engaged in extensive research to
determine the training programs presently in place. These programs w=
ill
be described below, using the exact descriptions (except where otherw=
ise
indicated by brackets) as stated in POST materials.
1. Programs Addressing Developmental Disability Issues
* Telecourse Title: Law Enforcement Awareness of Disabilities - C=
PTN
Module Number: 95-06
Description: Lists the four major types of developmental disabilities=
;
describes the general characteristics which identify persons with ea=
ch
disability; discusses strategic communication and safety techniques
utilized with each disability; differentiates between techniques to b=
e
utilized when the person with a developmental disability is either a
victim of, a witness to, or a perpetrator of a crime; discusses "Peop=
le
First" terminology and the characteristics of persons having a Trauma=
tic
Brain Injury. (Printed reference guide accompanies the program.)
* Course Title: Sexual Assault Inv. Update
(Posted 09/20/00 and 02/05/01)
Course Number: 6770-33415
Hours/Plan: 24/I
Facility: Rape Crisis Response Services of Tulare County
303 East Acequia Street
Visalia, CA 93291
(209) 732-7371
Description: Designed to update sexual assault investigators and alli=
ed
crisis intervention personnel regarding victim interviewing technique=
s,
procedures for assessing and processing sexual assault crime scenes,
specialized techniques [for] interviewing child victims and persons w=
ith
developmental disabilities. In addition, the program will address th=
e
use of multidisciplinary teams in sexual assault cases. Prerequisite=
:
Must have previously completed a Basic Sexual Assault Inv. Course and
have current responsibilities for these types. (Backfill approved.)
Tuition: $155.00.
* Course Title: Dev/Learning Disab =96 ID & Accom.
(Posted 02/05/01)
Corse Number: 2520-23278
Hhours/Plan: 12/IV
Facility: San Joaquin County Sheriff=92s Department
7000 Michael Canlis Blvd.
French Camp, CA 95231
(209) 468-4340
Description: Provides law enforcement, corrections, and probation
personnel with comprehensive instruction regarding
learning/Developmental disabilities, follows a standardized curricula
developed under a grant from the State Council on Developmental
Disabilities, incorporates a student workbook addressing the history =
of
the disability movement, defining learning and developmental
disabilities, informal and formal disability ID, the referral process=
,
prevalence data, and system involvement with disabled clients to incl=
ude
arrest issues, trial issues, incarceration issues, and probation/paro=
le
considerations.
* Portions of Video Broadcasts =96 July 9, 1998
Topic
Length
- Law Enforce Awareness of Disabilities Overview, Pt. I
17:27
- Law Enforce Awareness of Disabilities Overview, Pt. II
19:26
2. Programs Addressing Mental Disability Issues
* Telecourse Title: Recognizing Mental Illness: A Proactive
Approach =96
CTPN
Date: February 24, 2000
(but still offered on video according to a 2001 listing))
Times: 10:00 a.m. =96 12:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. =96 8:30 p.m.
Module Number: 00-02
Source: Satellite Program Guide =96 February, 2000
Description: This program focuses on the relationship between law
enforcement and the mental health community and provides instruction =
on
how to handle situations involving persons with psychological
disabilities. Different types and causes of mental illness are
highlighted, including schizophrenia, disorganized speech, anxiety
illness, mood disorders, brain damage, dimentia, delinium, and
Alzheimer=92s. The program reviews laws related to mental illness
including W&I [Welfare and Institutions Code] Section 5150, 5328, and
8100. The telecourse shows effective tactics used by peace officers
when approaching and talking to persons with psychological
disabilities. Details on the growing numbers of mentally ill inmates
and homeless people are also presented. The program concludes with
profiles of successful partnerships between California law enforcemen=
t
and mental health professionals. (Printed reference guide accompanie=
s
the program.)
3. Program Addressing BOTH Developmental and Mental Disability
Issues
Video Broadcast - February 14, 1991
Topivc
Location Length
Developmental Disabilities & Mental Illness Newport Beach
Police Department 14:00
C. Commentary
This Roundtable =96 representing people with physical, developmental,=
and
mental disabilities, seeks the opportunity to establish a close dialo=
g
with POST as it moves forward to put into place new and innovative
programs that will maximize the education and exposure of members of =
the
law enforcement community to the issues surrounding people with
disabilities. The potential for collaboration is great as is the
progress that can be made through a close working relationship.
The Training Program Services Bureau (Ray A. Bray, Bureau Chief) of
POST=92s Standards and Development Division is responsible for develo=
ping
new training courses as required by legislative mandate. In order to
establish a cooperative relationship with this Division, the Roundtab=
le
will contact the following individuals within POST to begin the dialo=
g:
* Law Enforcement Awareness of Disabilities (LEAD)
Training Program
Diana Vessels
(916) 227-4856
* For ADA-Related Questions:
Standards and Evaluation
Shelley Spilberg
(916) 227-4824
III. Diversification of Roundtable Representation and Effort
A. Membership Development
As was initially envisioned, the Roundtable continues to grow, both i=
n
the size of its membership and in the diversity of representation.
Richard Ray and Angela Kaufman, both from the Department on Disabilit=
y
of the City of Los Angeles, joined the Roundtable in June, and more n=
ew
member organizations are slated for Roundtable membership by July.
Rita Rubin, President of the Long Beach / South Bay Chapter of the
Autism Society of America has labored diligently to enlist Craig A.
Durfey, Founder and President of Parents for the Rights of Children w=
ith
Developmental Disabilities, to participate in future Roundtable
meetings. Mr. Durfey is confirmed to attend the next meeting on Frida=
y,
July 13.
Rosa Kapplan of the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern
California has recommended for Roundtable membership Attorney Donald
Cook, Co-Chair of Police Watch, a grass-roots community-based
organization. The Roundtable has already been in touch with Mr. Cook
directly, and he will be representing Police Watch at future meetings=
.
Resulting from discussions with Olegario D. Cantos, VII, joining the
Roundtable in July will be Dr. Nora J. Baladerian, Director of Child
Abuse and Neglect / Disability Outreach (CAN-DO), a project of the AR=
C =96
Riverside. Ms. Elisabeth DeBartolo, representing both the Crime Vict=
ims
with Disabilities Initiative of the California State Department of
Health and Human Services and the California Coalition on Crime Again=
st
People with Disabilities, will also be on hand for the first time.
Tamara Taleebah, Director of Sisters Community Services Center,
continues to spread the word about the work of various Roundtables, a=
nd
advocates Loislyn Meister and Kyra Blank continue attending public
meetings with law enforcement to monitor treatment of and attitudes
toward people with disabilities.
B. Expansion of Scope
Though the collection of information must never end, the initial phas=
e
of the Roundtable=92s information-gathering is now nearing its
completion. Based on what has been assembled thus far, the group may
now move into an =93action mode=94 in which affirmative policies and
programs may begin to be created and then brought to fruition.
Aggressive outreach is needed to establish a firm network of individu=
als
and organizations commited to advancing disability rights within the
criminal justice context. Constant throughout this process is the ne=
ed
continually to:
* Expand the distribution of the identification cards that may
assist law enforcement when encountering people with disabilities (se=
e
Action Summary, dated Tuesday, March 6, 2001).
* Forge close relationships with the various organizations whose
information the Roundtable has collected.
* Implement innovative training programs to encourage more people
with disabilities to come forward to report when they have been
victimized.
* Enhance awareness among prosecutors within various district
attorneys=92 offices so as to increase the number of prosecutions of =
cases
involving people with severe disabilities.
* Work to ensure that members of the law enforcement community ar=
e
trained properly and adequately on how to interact with people with
disabilities whom they encounter.
These goals are ambitious. But, the more momentum the Roundtable
gathers, the greater the difference the membership will make within a
shorter period of time.
Respectfully submitted,
Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq.
******************************
5. ONLINE TIMELINE
Upcoming Disability Rights Roundtable Meetings
Unless otherwise indicated, all Roundtable meetings are to begin =
at
6:00 p.m. To RSVP, contact Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq., at (213)
736-8365 or via email at Ollie.Cantos@LLS.edu (placing the words
"Roundtable RSVP" on the subject line).
* Physical Accessibility - Tuesday, September 6
* Employment - Wednesday, September 12
* Criminal Justice System - Thursday, September 20
* Post-Secondary Education - Thursday, September 27
* Transportation - Thursday, November 8
* Access to Managed Care - Thursday, November 15
All organizational leaders are encouraged either to become part o=
f
these Roundtables or to send a designated representative. Please cal=
l
(213) 736-8365 to request a sign-up form.
Collaborative Events
First Annual Abilities Symposium
Saturday, October 13, 2001, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Coordinated by Ability First
(More details to come.)
"Hard Hats / Kind Hearts"
Tuesday, October 16, 2001, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Jointly coordinated between Complete Access and the City of Los
Angeles Department on Disabilities
Contact: Sophie Anderson (310) 575-4020 (voice) or Richard Ray
(213) 847-6560 (TDD)
Third Annual Southern California Disability Rights Leadership
Conference
January, 2002
(More details to come.)
Eighth National / First International Conference on Abuse of
Children and Adults with Disabilities
Monday-Wednesday, February 25-27, 2002 (with special events on
February 24-25) - Riverside, California
(More details to come.)
Training for Your Grass-Roots Organization
Want to have us do training for your Southern California grass-ro=
ots
community-based organization? Just guarantee us that you will have a=
t
least 25 people in attendance, and we will provide four hours of
training on the basics of disability rights law for little or no
charge. Put our experience to work for you! Call Olegario D. Cantos=
,
VII, Esq., at (213) 736-8365 (voice) or email him at
Ollie.Cantos@LLS.edu for complete details.
Free Disability Rights Training
Pasadena City College
Multipurpose Room
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Contact: Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq.: (213) 736-8365 (voice);
(213) 736-8310 (TDD)
FREE Special Education
The Learning Rights Project of the Western Law Center for Disabil=
ity
Rights will be conducting a FREE training session on special educatio=
n
law on Saturday, September 1, 2001. The agenda follows:
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Basic Overview of the Legal Rights of Students with Disabilities
Ages 3-22
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Special Education and the Dependency System.
To RSVP, call (213) 736-8366. Be sure to mention that you learne=
d
about this training
through the Online Update.
Special Events
Fourth Annual Bob Cooney Golf Tournament
Benefiting the Cancer Legal Resource Center
Sunday, September 23, 2001
Coyote Hills Golf Course
1440 Bastanchury Road
Fullerton, California
Contact: Ami Silverman -- (213) 736-1042 (Voice); (213) 736-83=
10
(TDD)
Or visit: http://events.lls.edu/cooney
Annual Gala
Tuesday, November 13, 2001
Dorothy Chandler Paviliion
Los Angeles Music Center
Contact: Ralph Gottlieb -- (213) 736-1437 (Voice); (213) 736-831=
0
(TDD)
*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^
This edition of the Online Update (Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq.,
Editor) is brought to you by the Outreach and Education Project of th=
e
Western Law Center for Disability Rights, located in Los Angeles,
California. Reproduction of this publication by either mechanic or
electronic means is permitted and encouraged, provided that such
reproduction of this publication is done
in its entirety. Mechanic reproduction may involve printing the Upda=
te
and distributing it to interested persons, and electronic reproductio=
n
may involve forwarding the Update to others via email or posting the
entire edition of the Update on a web site or electronic bulletin boa=
rd
without making modifications to the text. Where a single article is
taken from this publication for
reproduction, either in whole or in part, due credit must be given to
the Western Law Center for Disability Rights as the original source, =
and
email notification must be sent to Ollie.Cantos@LLS.edu along with a
copy of the publication in which the article (or an excerpt of the
article) re-appeared. Where sources of information do not originate
=66rom the Center, links are appropriately given to the full text of =
such
writing so as to remain compliant with existing copyright law.
In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is
distributed without charge or profit to those who have expressed a pr=
ior
interest in receiving this type of information for non-profit researc=
h
and educational purposes only. The contents of the Online Update are
not legal advice or legal opinions on any specific matters.
Transmission of the information is not intended to create, and receip=
t
does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship between the Western
Law Center for Disability Rights, the author(s), or the publisher (La=
w
Firm, Bar Association or other legal publisher) and you. Internet
subscribers and online readers should not act upon this information
without seeking professional counsel.
If you wish to be removed from this list, please reply to this email
directly and put "Unsubscribe" on the subject line. Then, in the bod=
y
of the email, only write your email address.
Feel free to forward this email to all those who may be interested in
receiving it. Better yet, encourage them to subscribe directly by go=
ing
to our web site at:
http://www.wlcdr.org
We are eager to hear from you. If the Online Update has helped you i=
n a
specific way, we would love to learn about exactly
how. Our goal is to make this online publication better and better, =
and
your feedback is always most appreciated. Please send
comments to:
Ollie.Cantos@LLS.edu
and place the words "Newsletter Feedback" on the subject line.
* * *
WESTERN LAW CENTER FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS
919 South Albany Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(213) 736-1031 (Voice)
(213) 736-8310 (TDD)
(213) 736-1428 (Fax)
wlcdr@LLS.edu (Email)
http://www.wlcdr.org (Web)
--Boundary_(ID_UISWofQv7dSD02EGaairaQ)
Content-type: text/html; charset=iso-8859-1
Content-transfer-encoding: QUOTED-PRINTABLE
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<html>
<center><b>*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^</b>
<br><b>WESTERN LAW CENTER FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS</b>
<p><b>ONLINE UPDATE</b>
<p><b>Volume 1, Number 13 -- Thursday, August 23, 2001</b>
<p><b>*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^</b>
<p><b>Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq.</b>
<br><b><i>Editor</i></b>
<p><b>Protecting the Possibilities since 1975</b>
<br><b><A HREF=3D"http://www.wlcdr.org">http://www.wlcdr.org</A></b>
<p><b>(c) Western Law Center for Disability Rights, 2001. All R=
ights
Reserved.</b></center>
<p><u>IN THIS ISSUE:</u>
<p>1. NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:
<br> OF ELEPHANTS, FLEAS, AND THE ATTITUDES O=
F
THE DISABILITY
<br> COMMUNITY
<p>2. LITIGATION UPDATE:
<br> KOREAN STUDENT ENSURES ACCESS FOR THE BL=
IND
IN THE
<br> KOREAN COMMUNITY
<p>3. WESTERN LAW CENTER ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH
<br> COMPLETE ACCESS AND THE DEPARTMENT ON DI=
SABILITY
<br> OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES
<p>4. PARTNERSHIP IN PROGRESS:
<br> ACTION SUMMARY FROM THE DISABILITY RIGHT=
S
<br> ROUNDTABLE ON THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTE=
M
<p>5. ONLINE TIMELINE
<p>=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D
<center>
<p><b>1. NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:</b>
<br><b>OF ELEPHANTS, FLEAS, AND THE</b>
<br><b>ATTITUDES OF THE DISABILITY COMMUNITY</b></center>
<p>Nature is a wonderous marvel. Ever stop to look around you t=
o
see the great differences in the living things that populate the Eart=
h?
Some creatures are large while others are small.
<p>Take, for instance, the elephant, the largest living land mammal, =
found
in tropical regions of Africa and Asia. According to the Encycl=
opedia,
"Elephants are browsing animals, feeding on fruits, leaves, shoots, a=
nd
tall grasses. They consume hundreds of pounds of food a day and=
drink
up to 50 gallons of water. They have no fixed living place but travel=
about
in herds of up to 100 animals ... Elephants walk at a pace of about 6=
.4
kilometers per hour but can charge at speeds of 48 km per hour. =
They
cannot jump and so cannot pass barriers too wide or too high to step =
over;
they swim well, however."
<p>By contrast, fleas are among the smallest of creatures. Oppo=
site
=66rom the abilities of the elephant, their legs "are powerful and ad=
apted
for fast movement and jumping."
<p>In spite of the great differences between the elephant and the fle=
a,
both have something in common -- they may be conditioned. Note =
above
how elephants have the ability to charge at great speeds. They =
may
therefore run from predators when the need arises. Circuses, ho=
wever,
have learned (rightly or wrongly) to condition elephants not to run a=
way.
They place on the elephants a chain that is attached to a large and i=
mmovable
fixture. At first, elephants try to break away. Eventuall=
y,
because they find their attempts to be in vain, they give up and no l=
onger
try to break free. Once so conditioned, even when circus traine=
rs
attach the elephants to a chain that itself is no longer tied to a st=
rong
fixture, the elephants do not try to break free, even when all it wou=
ld
take is for them simply to give the chain a strong tug, something per=
fectly
within their abilities.
<p>By the same token, the flea may be equally conditioned. Flea=
s
may jump as high as six feet or more. Yet, when placed in a sea=
led
glass jar, even the most determined flea will cease to try to jump ou=
t
of the jar if it consistently hits its head in the process. As =
a
result, over time, even if the jar cover is removed altogether, the f=
leas
will not escape the jar, because they will have learned a behavior th=
at
has conditioned them to jump high but not SO high that they will hit =
where
the cover was once placed.
<p>In some respects, we are no different than the elephant and the fl=
ea.
To a significant extent, we, too, are conditioned by our environment.=
We have been subjected to various constraints that have shaped our go=
als
and expectations -- indeed, the very core of who we are as individual=
s.
Based on our own personal experiences of what either works or does no=
t
work, we either expand our possibilities or limit our thinking. =
We
may even do some of each simultaneously within various facets of our =
lives.
<p>Quite literally for generations, we as members of the disability c=
ommunity
have been conditioned. In times past, dominantly prevailing has=
been
the attitude that we as people with disabilities are inherently less =
capable
than others. Hence, according to this way of thinking, logic di=
ctates
that we must be cared for from cradle to grave, and the role of socie=
ty
should be to make our lives as comfortable as possible under the debi=
litating
circumstances surrounding the reality of having a disability. R=
eciprocally,
according to this view, we as people with disabilities should be grat=
eful
for society's benevolence in taking such a noble course of action by =
caring
for those who are necessarily less fortunate by virtue of having a di=
sability.
Under this way of thinking, any individual who accomplishes even the =
smallest
of daily tasks is somehow seen as being extraordinarily gifted for "b=
eating
the odds."
<p>People with disabilities once took on these beliefs themselves.&nb=
sp;
To strive to undertake higher goals would be unthinkable and indeed w=
ould
be considered extremely unrealistic. Those who have gone before=
us
have had to battle hard against the old and outdated stereotypes that=
relegated
people with disabilities to mere second class status. Like the =
elephant
and the flea, our pioneers had to withstand resistence, not only from=
the
general population but even from people with disabilities themselves =
who
embodied the limiting notions that governed their daily existence.&nb=
sp;
People with disabilities, themselves part of society, once reasoned o=
ut
how there was simply no way to move ahead. Like the elephant an=
d
the flea, they have tried and tried to break free but with no real su=
ccess.
In their case, their chain was the prevailing negative societal attit=
ude
about disability, and their jar cover was the lack of real opportunit=
y
to move forward.
<p>Still, there are those of us who continue to strive to change the =
prevailing
notions of the past. We have endeavored to free ourselves from =
the
ways of thinking that limited our horizons and stifled our growth.&nb=
sp;
We have taken that extra step to break free. Following the exam=
ples
of leaders who have gone before us, we have decided to stop the peren=
nial
cycle in which limited beliefs led to limited action which consequent=
ly
reaffirmed and solidified the limited beliefs. We as the disabi=
lity
community now realize our true individual and collective power and po=
tential,
and we are tapping into this endless source of creativity, talent, dr=
ive,
fortitude, and determination. Our lives exemplify a break with =
past
generational behavior and, rather than simply being conditioned by th=
e
rest of the world, we are endeavoring to DO the conditioning by worki=
ng
with colleagues to strengthen belief in ourselves and engaging in act=
ivism
that sends the world the unmistakable message that we as the disabili=
ty
community WILL be heard and WILL determine for ourselves the course o=
f
our own lives. We are breaking with the past by striving for a =
future
in which equality is the rule rather than the exception. Like t=
he
elephant, we will proverbially charge ahead at 48 kilometers an hour =
and
beyond. But, because of our spirit of self-determination, we wi=
ll
not be running FROM the predator of limited belief but TOWARD a world=
in
which we are seen as equal in every way to those without disabilities=
.
We also continue to work hard to change flea-minded thinking that has=
held
us back. We will jump to heights hundreds of times our size.&nb=
sp;
In short, WE will be the ones to set the stage for our ultimate tomor=
row!
<p>Removal of physical, program, and attitudinal barriers is the key =
and,
because different situations call for different strategies, we at the=
Western
Law Center for Disability Rights will continue utilizing a number of =
strategies
to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. =
Our
litigation against three bus companies for their refusal to transport=
a
person with a guide dog is one example, and so is our strategic partn=
ership
with Complete Access and the Department on Disability of the City of =
Los
Angeles to work with businesses and community-based organizations.&nb=
sp;
The Center's work within the criminal justice system context provides=
yet
another avenue for instituting change. This issue of the Online=
Update
will tell readers about all these things and will conclude with the O=
nline
Timeline, which will alert the disability community to various upcomi=
ng
meetings and events, sponsored or co-sponsored by the Center.
<p>Unlike the experience of the elephant and the flea, we will remain=
vigilent
to our cause, no matter how many times forces seek to hold us back.&n=
bsp;
We will NEVER relinquish what we have discovered -- self-empowerment!=
Most important of all, we will move forward together in a spirit of u=
nity
and unwaivering confidence in what the future has in store. Wit=
h
the positive view that we will ultimately prevail, we will never ceas=
e
in our efforts until full participation in society is finally ours!
<p>******************************
<center>
<p><b>2. LITIGATION UPDATE:</b>
<br><b>KOREAN STUDENT ENSURES ACCESS FOR THE BLIND</b>
<br><b>IN THE KOREAN COMMUNITY</b></center>
<p>The Western Law Center for Disability Rights recently reached a se=
ttlement
with three Korean-owned travel companies specializing in Korean touri=
sm
ensuring that blind individuals are allowed on their tour buses, as t=
he
law requires. The tour bus companies, Samho Tour, Inc., Hanin T=
ravel,
and A-Ju Tours, Inc., agreed to take steps to ensure that blind custo=
mers
who use guide dogs will receive the same treatment as the general pub=
lic.
The agreement reached between the tour companies and Dae Hwan (David)=
Choi,
a student, came after Mr. Choi sued the companies for failing to take=
his
reservation, and in one case demanding that he get off a tour bus wit=
h
his guide dog.
<p>The incidents occurred in March 1999, when Mr. Choi=92s parents ca=
me to
visit from Korea. Mr. Choi tried to arrange a tour of the Grand=
Canyon
for himself and his parents. Hanin Travel and A-Ju Tours refuse=
d
to take his reservations because they would not allow his guide dog o=
n
their buses. Samho tour took the reservation. However, wh=
en
the Choi=92s arrived for the tour, employees made them get off the bu=
s because
of the dog, embarrassing them in front of the other passengers.
<p>California laws, including the Blind and Disabled Person=92s Act a=
nd Unruh
Civil Rights Act, and the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, re=
quire
that guide dogs be allowed in all public places, including tour buses=
.
The settlement calls for the tour bus companies to train their staff =
to
accommodate travelers with disabilities, including those using guide =
dogs,
to nclude statements in their advertising welcoming travelers with di=
sabilities,
and to pay Mr. Choi damages and attorneys=92 fees.
<p>=93My guide dog is not a pet =96 he is essential for me to navigat=
e in the
world. I was very disappointed when I was not allowed on the to=
urs
with my guide dog. I came to the United States hoping to find e=
quality
and equal rights. I think that these settlements now provide pe=
ople
with disabilities equal access to public facilities like everyone els=
e.
Finally I have the equality I was looking for when I came to the Unit=
ed
States,=94 said Mr. Choi.
<p>There are approximately 80,000 blind people in California, a signi=
ficant
percentage of whom use guide dogs. The agreement reached will r=
esult
in these travel companies improving the training and monitoring of em=
ployees
about the rights of persons with disabilities, including the absolute=
right
to be accompanied by a guide dog.
<p>=93This is a widespread problem for guide dog users in California =
and
elsewhere,=94 said Eve L. Hill, Executive Director of the Western Law=
Center
for Disability Rights. =93Korean and other businesses need to t=
rain
their employees that people with disabilities cannot be excluded or h=
arassed
because of their service animals. These agreements are a step i=
n
the right direction and we hope other companies will follow suit,=
=94 Hill
added.
<p>=93This case is important because it demonstrates the absolute rig=
ht of
a person with a disability to be accompanied by a service animal at a=
ll
times=94, stated Paula Pearlman, the Western Law Center's Director of=
Litigation
and one of the attorneys representing Mr. Choi.
<p>******************************
<center>
<p><b>3. WESTERN LAW CENTER ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH</b>
<br><b>COMPLETE ACCESS AND THE DEPARTMENT ON DISABILITY</b>
<br><b>OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES</b></center>
<p>Physical accessibility for people with disabilities must remain a =
top
priority within our community. The current and widespread absen=
ce
of legal enforcement requires that we as community activists =96 cons=
isting
both of people with and without disabilities alike =96 must come toge=
ther
to address this pressing problem. Through a new and innovative =
partnership,
we at the Western Law Center for Disability Rights believe that physi=
cal
accessibility within places of public accommodation will now become a=
reality
more than ever!
<p>We at the Western Law Center are proud to announce that we have jo=
ined
forces with Complete Access and the Department on Disability of the C=
ity
of Los Angeles to help create a unique public-private partnership.&nb=
sp;
This project will unite people with disabilities and leaders of the b=
usiness
community for the purpose of enhancing physical accessibility in a wa=
y
that will be mutually advantageous to all involved. Complete Ac=
cess
has played a significant leadership role through its groundbreaking e=
vent
in October 2000 called =93A F.I.N.E. Day with Spare Parts=94 in which=
people
who use wheelchairs may have their equipment repaired at no charge ot=
her
than the cost of parts. Last year, numerous organizations and a=
ctivists
participated. This year, through an event called =93Hard Hats /=
Kind
Hearts,=94 Complete Access will build upon last year=92s success by a=
dding
a new component in which disability rights advocates and business own=
ers
will work together on barrier removal issues.
<p>Mark your calendar for Tuesday, October 16, 2001 from 11:00 a.m. t=
o
5:00 p.m., and come to the Los Angeles Convention Center to take part=
in
an event of unprecedented proportions!
<p> The event will feature:
<p> * Organizatioanl information booths that range =
in
focus from legal advocacy, to social services, to private ventures =
=96 all
focused on the disability community
<br> * A brand new opportunity to participate in th=
e
Local Action Team, which will devote its attention to working in part=
nership
with private business to remove current physical barriers -- more EXC=
ITING
details to come
<br> * The availability of technicians to repair wh=
eelchairs
at NO labor costs to the wheelchair user
<br> * A seminar on self-advocacy, specifically tai=
lored
to enhancing physical accessibility
<br>` * =85 And MUCH MUCH more!
<p>There are numerous ways to get personally involved. You can:
<p> * Have your organization co-sponsor the event b=
y
contributing monetarily to the day=92s efforts.
<br> * Staff an information booth for your organiza=
tion.
<br> * Volunteer on site to assist with logistics a=
nd
plan implementation.
<br> * Assist in promoting the event among colleagu=
es
and friends.
<p>The Western Law Center is proud to join with Complete Access and t=
he
Department on Disability of the City of Los Angeles in enhancing phys=
ical
accessibility within the private sector, and we invite you to join us=
as
we move forward to make complete physical accessibility a reality for=
the
Los Angeles disability community.
<p>To RSVP for the event, contact Sophie Anderson at Complete Access =
at
(310) 575-4020 (voice) or Richard Ray at the Deparment on Disability =
at
(213) 847-6560 (TDD). For tracking purposes, please mention tha=
t
you heard about the event through the Online Update.
<p>******************************
<center>
<p><b>4. PARTNERSHIP IN PROGRESS:</b>
<br><b>ACTION SUMMARY FROM THE DISABILITY RIGHTS</b>
<br><b>ROUNDTABLE ON THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM</b>
<p><b>Coordinated by the</b>
<br><b>WESTERN LAW CENTER FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS</b>
<p><b>In Conjunction With</b>
<br><b>AMERICAN CIVIL LIBERTIES UNION OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA</b=
>
<br><b>MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY SERVICES</b>
<br><b>PROTECTION AND ADVOCACY, INC.</b>
<p><b>Action Summary</b>
<br><b>Monday, May 14, 2001; Monday, June 4, 2001 (Conbined)</b>
<p><u>I. Introduction</u></center>
<p>In order best to establish an accurate and complete understanding =
of
current training programs offered to members of law enforcement here =
in
California as a basis for determining how to modify that training to =
enhance
understanding of issues affecting people with disabilities, the Disab=
ility
Rights Roundtable on the Criminal Justice System has devoted concentr=
ated
energy to learning more about the efforts and activities of the Calif=
ornia
Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). Foun=
ded
in 1959 and currently consisting of more than 580 member agencies, th=
e
stated mission of the organization is =93to continually enhance the p=
rofessionalism
of California law enforcement in serving its communities.=94
<p>Under AB 1718 (2000), POST is statutorily charged with the respons=
ibility
of training members of law enforcement on how better to interact with=
people
with mental and developmental disabilities, abiding by specific requi=
rements
as defined under California Penal Code Section 1325 (see Action Summa=
ry,
dated Tuesday, March 6, 2001).
<p>The Roundtable finds it particularly noteworthy that, in a piece e=
ntitled
=93Legislation of Interest=94 on Page 7 of the January-February 2000 =
edition
of POST Scripts (Volume 2, Number 4), while the passage of AB 1718 wa=
s
still pending, POST stood in opposition to the bill. Here=
is
what the publication said:
<p> ------------------------------
<br> AB 1718 (Hertzberg): Peace Officers: Advanced T=
raining:
Mental Illness
<p>This bill would require every police officer or deputy sheriff at =
a
supervisory level or below who is assigned field or investigative dut=
ies
to complete, every four years after being assigned field or investiga=
tive
duties, an advanced training course in the handling of persons with d=
evelopmental
disabilities or mental illness, or both, as specified.
<br> Commission Position: Oppose, unless amended.
<br> ------------------------------
<p>In spite of this, the Roundtable will endeavor to forge an allianc=
e
with POST as it moves forward with its work in light of its legislati=
ve
mandate. The Roundtable will seek to ensure that POST=92s programs ap=
propriately
reflect the needs of the disability community.
<p>According to POST, =93Recognizing that effective law enforcement i=
s the
cornerstone of a free and safe society, POST is committed to a vision=
of
the future that ensures quality, integrity, accountability, and coope=
ration;
encourages new ideas; explores and uses appropriate technologies; and=
delivers
relevant, client-based programs and services.=94 POST strives for hig=
h and
worthy goals =96 ideals that the Roundtable stands ready to assist in=
helping
POST to fulfill. It is in this spirit of partnership that the R=
oundtable
will seek ultimately to have the views of the disability community at=
tentively
heard and meaningfully addressed.
<center>
<p><u>II. POST: Assessment and Commentary</u></center>
<p>A. Existing Laws Requiring Disability-Related Training of Ca=
lifornia
Peace Officers
<p>According to California Penal Code Section 13519.2, training of la=
w
enforcement personnel on disability issues is not something new. =
;
In fact, this requirement has been in place for more than 10 years.&n=
bsp;
See:
<p> <A HREF=3D"http://www.post.ca.gov/pubs/pam/a-law.doc">http:/=
/www.post.ca.gov/pubs/pam/a-law.doc</A>
<br>(Word document, Page 23 - size 136,192 bytes - 5/2/01 6:22:48 PM =
GMT)
<p> ------------------------------
<br>SECTION 13519.2 =96 PERSONS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND/O=
R MENTAL
ILLNESS, TRAINING COURSE, AND GUIDELINES.
<p>(a) The commission shall, on or before July 1, 1990, include in th=
e
basic training course for law enforcement officers, adequate instruct=
ion
in the handling of persons with developmental disabilities or mental =
illness,
or both. Officers who complete the basic training prior to July=
1,
1990, shall participate in supplementary training on this topic. =
;
This supplementary training shall be completed on or before July 1, 1=
992.
Further training courses to update this instruction shall be establis=
hed,
as deemed necessary by the commission.
<p>(b) The course of instruction relating to the handling of developm=
entally
disabled or mentally ill persons shall be developed by the commission=
in
consultation with appropriate groups and individuals having an intere=
st
and expertise in this area. In addition to providing instructio=
n
on the handling of these persons, the course shall also include infor=
mation
on the cause and nature of developmental disabilities and mental illn=
ess,
as well as the community resources available to serve these persons.
<br>------------------------------
<p>As such, Section B of the POST Administrative Manual, through the =
California
Code of Regulations, under Title 11, Subdivision 2, Section 1081(a)(7=
)
set forth the scope of the training and guidelines as follows:
<p> <A HREF=3D"http://www.post.ca.gov/pubs/pam/b-regulations.do=
c">http://www.post.ca.gov/pubs/pam/b-regulations.doc</A>
<br> (Word document, Page 36 - size 305,152 bytes - 5/2/01 6:22=
:49
PM GMT)
<br> ------------------------------
<br>SECTION 1081 =96 MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR LEGISLATIVELY-MANDATED COU=
RSES.
<p> (a)(7) Developmental Disabilities and Mental Illness -=
4
Hours
<br> (A) Legal Requirements for Taking Person Into Custod=
y
<br> (B) Mental Health/Regional Center Referral Resources
<br> (C) Practical Exercises
<br> (D)*Identification of Primary Disability or Problem
<br> (E)* Causes, Nature and Behavior Factors of Mental I=
llness
<br> (F)* Causes, Nature and Behavior Factors of Developm=
ental
Disabilities
<br> (G)*Procedures Required for Detention Under Authorit=
y
of section 5150, Welfare and Institutions Code
<br> (H) Alternate Methods for Handling Devel=
opmentally
Disabled or Mentally Ill
<p> *For in-service officers completing basic training pr=
ior
to 7-1-90, supplementary training consists of 2 hours emphasizing the=
indicated
topics.
<br>------------------------------
<p>Consequently, as POST has sought to meet its statutory obligations=
,
its compliance has taken on practical form as =93Basic Course LD37,=
=94 which
discusses a wide range of pertinent topics, in the =93Cognitive Workb=
ook
Enabling Objectives for the Regular Basic Course,=94 found at:
<p> <A HREF=3D"http://www.post.ca.gov/train/eodoc07.doc">http://=
www.post.ca.gov/train/eodoc07.doc</A>
<br> (Word document, Page 89-92 - size 412,672 bytes - 7/9/01 5=
:09:27
PM GMT)
<p> The workbook lists the Enabling Objectives (or EO=92s) as fo=
llows:
<p> ------------------------------
<br> Persons with Disabilities
<p>37.01.EO01 Define the term disability.
<p>37.01.EO02 Identify the key provisions that impact on =
law
enforcement of the following federal and state laws enacted to protec=
t
the rights of persons with disabilities including Americans with Disa=
bilities
Act.
<p>37.01.EO03 Identify the key provisions that impact on law enforcem=
ent
of the following federal and state laws enacted to protect the rights=
of
persons with disabilities including Lanterman Developmental Disabilit=
ies
Service Act (WIC 4500 et seq.).
<p>37.01.EO04 Identify the key provisions that impact on law enforcem=
ent
of the following federal and state laws enacted to protect the rights=
of
persons with disabilities including Lanterman-Petris-Short Act (WIC 5=
150).
<p>37.01.EO05 Recognize indicators that could lead an officer to beli=
eve
that an individual is: A danger to self.
<p> 37.01.EO06 Recognize indicators that could lead an officer t=
o
believe that an individual is: Dangerous to others.
<p> 37.01.EO07 Recognize indicators that could lead an officer t=
o
believe that an individual is:Gravely disabled.
<p> 37.01.EO08 Identify the explicit elements of probable cause =
as
it applies to WIC Section 5150.
<p> 37.01.EO09 Recognize appropriate procedures for protecting t=
he
rights of persons detained under Welfare and Institutions Code Sectio=
n
5150.
<p>37.01.EO10 Identify specific provisions of the law which app=
ly
to persons with disabilities and public access.
<p>37.01.EO11 Identify specific provisions of the law which apply to =
persons
with disabilities and the use of service animals.
<p> 37.01.EO12 Recognize the role of peace officers when interac=
ting
with a person with a disability.
<p> 37.02.EO01 Define the term mental disorder.
<p> 37.02.EO02 Identify the two categories of mental disorder as=
:
Thought disorders.
<p> 37.02.EO03 Identify the two categories of mental disorder as=
Mood
disorders.
<p>37.02.EO04 Recognize behavioral cues that may be generally associa=
ted
with persons affected by mental disorders.
<p>37.02.EO05 Identify indicators officers can use when attempting to=
determine
if persons affected by mental disorders are dangerous.
<p>37.02.EO06 Recognize appropriate tactical measures when responding=
to
a call involving a person with a mental disorder.
<p>37.02.EO07 Differentiate between the courses of actions for peace =
officers
when dealing with a person who appears to be affected by a mental dis=
order
and is: Dangerous or gravely disabled.
<p>37.02.EO08 Differentiate between the courses of actions for peace =
officers
when dealing with a person who appears to be affected by a mental dis=
order
and is: NOT dangerous or gravely disabled.
<p>37.02.EO09 Recognize behavioral cues that may be associated with a=
person
who appears to be affected by postpartum psychosis.
<p>37.02.EO10 Identify the courses of actions for peace officers when=
dealing
with a person who appears to be affected by a postpartum psychosis.
<p>37.03.EO01 Recognize behavioral cues or other indicators that lead=
an
officer to identify a person as being: Deaf or hearing impaired=
.
<p>37.03.EO02 Recognize behavioral cues or other indicators that lead=
an
officer to identify a person as being: Blind or visually impair=
ed.
<p>37.03.EO03 Identify appropriate methods an officer can use to comm=
unicate
with a person who is: Deaf or hearing impaired.
<p>37.03.EO04 Identify appropriate methods an officer can use to comm=
unicate
with a person who is: Blind or visually impaired.
<p>37.03.EO05 Recognize behavioral cues generally associated with per=
sons
with: Acquired neurologically-based disorders such as Alzheimer=
=92s
disease or stroke.
<p>37.03.EO06 Recognize behavioral cues generally associated with per=
sons
with: Traumatic neurologically-based disorders.
<p>37.03.EO07 Identify appropriate peace officer actions when dealing=
with
a person who appears to have a neurologically-based disorder.
<p>37.04.EO01 Define the term developmental disability.
<p>37.04.EO02 Recognizing behavioral cues generally associated with p=
ersons
affected by: Mental retardation.
<p>37.04.EO03 Recognize behavioral cues generally associated with per=
sons
affected by: Cerebral palsy.
<p>37.04.EO04 Recognize behavioral cues generally associated with per=
sons
affected by: Autism.
<br>37.04.EO05 Identify appropriate peace officer actions during fiel=
d
contacts with persons affected by developmental disorders.
<p>37.04.EO06 Recognize behavioral cues that indicate a person under =
stress
may be susceptible to epileptic seizures.
<p>37.04.EO07 Recognize behavioral cues that indicate an individual i=
s
experiencing: A tonic clonic seizure.
<p>37.04.EO08 Recognize behavioral cues that indicate an individual i=
s
experiencing: A complex partial seizure.
<p>37.04.EO09 Identify appropriate officer response for aiding a pers=
on
experiencing a seizure.
<br>------------------------------
<p>B. Training Programs Already In Place
<p>POST has devoted some time to issues surrounding interaction with =
people
with developmental and mental disabilities =96 both victims and perpe=
trators.
But, more must be done as AB 1718 is implemented. For now, thou=
gh,
the Roundtable has engaged in extensive research to determine the tra=
ining
programs presently in place. These programs will be described b=
elow,
using the exact descriptions (except where otherwise indicated by bra=
ckets)
as stated in POST materials.
<p> 1. Programs Addressing Developmenta=
l
Disability Issues
<p> * Telecourse Title: Law Enforcement Awareness o=
f
Disabilities - CPTN
<br> Module Number: 95-06
<p>Description: Lists the four major types of developmental disabilit=
ies;
describes the general characteristics which identify persons wi=
th
each disability; discusses strategic communication and safety techniq=
ues
utilized with each disability; differentiates between techniques to b=
e
utilized when the person with a developmental disability is either a =
victim
of, a witness to, or a perpetrator of a crime; discusses "People Firs=
t"
terminology and the characteristics of persons having a Traumatic Bra=
in
Injury. (Printed reference guide accompanies the program.)
<p> * Course Title: Sexual Assault Inv. Updat=
e
<br> (Posted 09/20/00 and 02/05/0=
1)
<br> Course Number: 6770-33415
<br> Hours/Plan: 24/I
<p> Facility: Rape Crisis Respons=
e
Services of Tulare County
<br> 303 East Acequia Street
<br> Visalia, CA 9329=
1
<br> (209) 732-7371
<p>Description: Designed to update sexual assault investigators and a=
llied
crisis intervention personnel regarding victim interviewing technique=
s,
procedures for assessing and processing sexual assault crime scenes, =
specialized
techniques [for] interviewing child victims and persons with developm=
ental
disabilities. In addition, the program will address the use of =
multidisciplinary
teams in sexual assault cases. Prerequisite: Must have pr=
eviously
completed a Basic Sexual Assault Inv. Course and have current respons=
ibilities
for these types. (Backfill approved.) Tuition: $155=
.00.
<p> * Course Title: Dev/Learning Disab =96 ID=
&
Accom.
<br> (Posted 02/05/01)
<br> Corse Number: 2520-232=
78
<br> Hhours/Plan: 12/IV
<p> Facility: San Joaquin County =
Sheriff=92s
Department
<br> 7000 Michael Canlis Blvd.
<br> French Camp, CA =
95231
<br> (209) 468-4340
<p>Description: Provides law enforcement, corrections, and probation =
personnel
with comprehensive instruction regarding learning/Developmental disab=
ilities,
follows a standardized curricula developed under a grant from the Sta=
te
Council on Developmental Disabilities, incorporates a student workboo=
k
addressing the history of the disability movement, defining learning =
and
developmental disabilities, informal and formal disability ID, the re=
ferral
process, prevalence data, and system involvement with disabled client=
s
to include arrest issues, trial issues, incarceration issues, and pro=
bation/parole
considerations.
<p> * Portions of Video Broadcasts =96 July 9, 1998
<p> Topic =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
Length
<p> - Law Enforce Awareness of Di=
sabilities
Overview, Pt. I 17:27
<br> - Law Enforce Awareness of D=
isabilities
Overview, Pt. II 19:26
<p> 2. Programs Addressing Mental Disability =
Issues
<p> * Telecourse Title: Recognizing Mental Illness:=
A Proactive Approach =96
<br> CTPN
<br> Date: February 2=
4,
2000
<br> (but still offered on video =
according
to a 2001 listing))
<br> Times: 10:00 a.m=
.
=96 12:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. =96 8:30 p.m.
<br> Module Number: 00-02
<br> Source: Satellite Prog=
ram
Guide =96 February, 2000
<p>Description: This program focuses on the relationship between law =
enforcement
and the mental health community and provides instruction on how to ha=
ndle
situations involving persons with psychological disabilities. D=
ifferent
types and causes of mental illness are highlighted, including schizop=
hrenia,
disorganized speech, anxiety illness, mood disorders, brain damage, d=
imentia,
delinium, and Alzheimer=92s. The program reviews laws related t=
o mental
illness including W&I [Welfare and Institutions Code] Section 515=
0,
5328, and 8100. The telecourse shows effective tactics used by =
peace
officers when approaching and talking to persons with psychological d=
isabilities.
Details on the growing numbers of mentally ill inmates and homeless p=
eople
are also presented. The program concludes with profiles of succ=
essful
partnerships between California law enforcement and mental health pro=
fessionals.
(Printed reference guide accompanies the program.)
<p> 3. Program Addressing BOTH Developmental =
and
Mental Disability Issues
<br> Video Broadcast =
-
February 14, 1991
<p> Topivc  =
; &n=
bsp;  =
; &n=
bsp;  =
;
Location &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp;
Length
<p> Developmental Dis=
abilities
& Mental Illness Newport Beach Police Department  =
;
14:00
<p>C. Commentary
<p>This Roundtable =96 representing people with physical, development=
al,
and mental disabilities, seeks the opportunity to establish a close d=
ialog
with POST as it moves forward to put into place new and innovative pr=
ograms
that will maximize the education and exposure of members of the law e=
nforcement
community to the issues surrounding people with disabilities. T=
he
potential for collaboration is great as is the progress that can be m=
ade
through a close working relationship.
<p>The Training Program Services Bureau (Ray A. Bray, Bureau Chief) o=
f
POST=92s Standards and Development Division is responsible for develo=
ping
new training courses as required by legislative mandate. In ord=
er
to establish a cooperative relationship with this Division, the Round=
table
will contact the following individuals within POST to begin the dialo=
g:
<p> * Law Enforcement Awareness of Disabilities (LE=
AD)
<br> Training Program
<br> Diana Vessels
<br> (916) 227-4856
<p> * For ADA-Related Questions:
<br> Standards and Evaluation
<br> Shelley Spilberg
<br> (916) 227-4824
<center>
<p><u>III. Diversification of Roundtable Representation and Eff=
ort</u></center>
<p>A. Membership Development
<p>As was initially envisioned, the Roundtable continues to grow, bot=
h
in the size of its membership and in the diversity of representation.=
Richard Ray and Angela Kaufman, both from the Department on Disabilit=
y
of the City of Los Angeles, joined the Roundtable in June, and more n=
ew
member organizations are slated for Roundtable membership by July.
<p>Rita Rubin, President of the Long Beach / South Bay Chapter of the=
Autism
Society of America has labored diligently to enlist Craig A. Durfey, =
Founder
and President of Parents for the Rights of Children with Developmenta=
l
Disabilities, to participate in future Roundtable meetings. Mr. Durfe=
y
is confirmed to attend the next meeting on Friday, July 13.
<p>Rosa Kapplan of the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern Cal=
ifornia
has recommended for Roundtable membership Attorney Donald Cook, Co-Ch=
air
of Police Watch, a grass-roots community-based organization. Th=
e
Roundtable has already been in touch with Mr. Cook directly, and he w=
ill
be representing Police Watch at future meetings.
<p>Resulting from discussions with Olegario D. Cantos, VII, joining t=
he
Roundtable in July will be Dr. Nora J. Baladerian, Director of Child =
Abuse
and Neglect / Disability Outreach (CAN-DO), a project of the ARC =
=96 Riverside.
Ms. Elisabeth DeBartolo, representing both the Crime Victims with Dis=
abilities
Initiative of the California State Department of Health and Human Ser=
vices
and the California Coalition on Crime Against People with Disabilitie=
s,
will also be on hand for the first time. Tamara Taleebah,=
Director
of Sisters Community Services Center, continues to spread the word ab=
out
the work of various Roundtables, and advocates Loislyn Meister and Ky=
ra
Blank continue attending public meetings with law enforcement to moni=
tor
treatment of and attitudes toward people with disabilities.
<p>B. Expansion of Scope
<p>Though the collection of information must never end, the initial p=
hase
of the Roundtable=92s information-gathering is now nearing its comple=
tion.
Based on what has been assembled thus far, the group may now move int=
o
an =93action mode=94 in which affirmative policies and programs may b=
egin to
be created and then brought to fruition. Aggressive outreach is=
needed
to establish a firm network of individuals and organizations commited=
to
advancing disability rights within the criminal justice context. =
;
Constant throughout this process is the need continually to:
<p> * Expand the distribution of the identification=
cards
that may assist law enforcement when encountering people with disabil=
ities
(see Action Summary, dated Tuesday, March 6, 2001).
<br> * Forge close relationships with the various o=
rganizations
whose information the Roundtable has collected.
<br> * Implement innovative training programs to en=
courage
more people with disabilities to come forward to report when they hav=
e
been victimized.
<br> * Enhance awareness among prosecutors within v=
arious
district attorneys=92 offices so as to increase the number of prosecu=
tions
of cases involving people with severe disabilities.
<br> * Work to ensure that members of the law enfor=
cement
community are trained properly and adequately on how to interact with=
people
with disabilities whom they encounter.
<p>These goals are ambitious. But, the more momentum the Roundt=
able
gathers, the greater the difference the membership will make within a=
shorter
period of time.
<p>Respectfully submitted,
<br>
<br>
<p>Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq.
<p>******************************
<center>
<p><b>5. ONLINE TIMELINE</b></center>
<p><u>Upcoming Disability Rights Roundtable Meetings</u>
<p> Unless otherwise indicated, all Roundtable meet=
ings
are to begin at 6:00 p.m. To RSVP, contact Olegario D. Cantos, =
VII,
Esq., at (213) 736-8365 or via email at Ollie.Cantos@LLS.edu (placing=
the
words "Roundtable RSVP" on the subject line).
<p> * Physical Accessibility - Tuesday, September 6
<br> * Employment - Wednesday, September 12
<br> * Criminal Justice System - Thursday, Septembe=
r
20
<br> * Post-Secondary Education - Thursday, Septemb=
er
27
<br> * Transportation - Thursday, November 8
<br> * Access to Managed Care - Thursday, November =
15
<p> All organizational leaders are encouraged eithe=
r
to become part of these Roundtables or to send a designated represent=
ative.
Please call (213) 736-8365 to request a sign-up form.
<p><u>Collaborative Events</u>
<p> First Annual Abilities Symposium
<br> Saturday, October 13, 2001, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 =
p.m.
<br> Coordinated by Ability First
<br> (More details to come.)
<p> "Hard Hats / Kind Hearts"
<br> Tuesday, October 16, 2001, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p=
.m.
<br> Jointly coordinated between Complete Access an=
d
the City of Los Angeles Department on Disabilities
<br> Contact: Sophie Anderson (310) 575-4020 =
(voice)
or Richard Ray (213) 847-6560 (TDD)
<p> Third Annual Southern California Disability Rig=
hts
Leadership Conference
<br> January, 2002
<br> (More details to come.)
<p> Eighth National / First International Conferenc=
e
on Abuse of Children and Adults with Disabilities
<br> Monday-Wednesday, February 25-27, 2002 (with s=
pecial
events on February 24-25) - Riverside, California
<br> (More details to come.)
<p><u>Training for Your Grass-Roots Organization</u>
<p> Want to have us do training for your Southern C=
alifornia
grass-roots community-based organization? Just guarantee us tha=
t
you will have at least 25 people in attendance, and we will provide f=
our
hours of training on the basics of disability rights law for little o=
r
no charge. Put our experience to work for you! Call Olega=
rio
D. Cantos, VII, Esq., at (213) 736-8365 (voice) or email him at Ollie=
.Cantos@LLS.edu
for complete details.
<p><u>Free Disability Rights Training</u>
<p> Pasadena City College
<br> Multipurpose Room
<br> 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
<br> Contact: Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq.:&=
nbsp;
(213) 736-8365 (voice); (213) 736-8310 (TDD)
<p><u>FREE Special Education</u>
<p> The Learning Rights Project of the Western Law =
Center
for Disability Rights will be conducting a FREE training session on s=
pecial
education law on Saturday, September 1, 2001. The agenda follow=
s:
<p> 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
<br> Basic Overview of the Legal Rights of Students=
with
Disabilities Ages 3-22
<p> 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
<br> Special Education and the Dependency System.
<p> To RSVP, call (213) 736-8366. Be sure to =
mention
that you learned about this training
<br>through the Online Update.
<p><u>Special Events</u>
<p> Fourth Annual Bob Cooney Golf Tournament
<br> Benefiting the Cancer Legal Resource Center
<br> Sunday, September 23, 2001
<br> Coyote Hills Golf Course
<br> 1440 Bastanchury Road
<br> Fullerton, California
<br> Contact: Ami Silverman -- (2=
13)
736-1042 (Voice); (213) 736-8310 (TDD)
<br> Or visit: <A HREF=3D"h=
ttp://events.lls.edu/cooney">http://events.lls.edu/cooney</A>
<p> Annual Gala
<br> Tuesday, November 13, 2001
<br> Dorothy Chandler Paviliion
<br> Los Angeles Music Center
<br> Contact: Ralph Gottlieb -- (213) 736-143=
7
(Voice); (213) 736-8310 (TDD)
<p>*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^*^
<p>This edition of the Online Update (Olegario D. Cantos, VII, Esq., =
Editor)
is brought to you by the Outreach and Education Project of the Wester=
n
Law Center for Disability Rights, located in Los Angeles, California.=
Reproduction of this publication by either mechanic or electronic mea=
ns
is permitted and encouraged, provided that such reproduction of this =
publication
is done
<br>in its entirety. Mechanic reproduction may involve printing=
the
Update and distributing it to interested persons, and electronic repr=
oduction
may involve forwarding the Update to others via email or posting the =
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out
making modifications to the text. Where a single article is tak=
en
=66rom this publication for
<br>reproduction, either in whole or in part, due credit must be give=
n
to the Western Law Center for Disability Rights as the original sourc=
e,
and email notification must be sent to Ollie.Cantos@LLS.edu along wit=
h
a copy of the publication in which the article (or an excerpt of the =
article)
re-appeared. Where sources of information do not originate from=
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Center, links are appropriately given to the full text of such writin=
g
so as to remain compliant with existing copyright law.
<p>In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is d=
istributed
without charge or profit to those who have expressed a prior interest=
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<p>We are eager to hear from you. If the Online Update has help=
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<br>how. Our goal is to make this online publication better and=
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and your feedback is always most appreciated. Please send
<br>comments to:
<p> Ollie.Cantos@LLS.edu
<p>and place the words "Newsletter Feedback" on the subject line.
<p>* * *
<center>
<p><b>WESTERN LAW CENTER FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS</b>
<br><b>919 South Albany Street</b>
<br><b>Los Angeles, CA 90015</b>
<br><b>(213) 736-1031 (Voice)</b>
<br><b>(213) 736-8310 (TDD)</b>
<br><b>(213) 736-1428 (Fax)</b>
<br><b>wlcdr@LLS.edu (Email)</b>
<br><b><A HREF=3D"http://www.wlcdr.org">http://www.wlcdr.org</A> (Web=
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