Get Help
If you believe your rights have been violated — or you are not sure where to start — this page will help you find the right people to contact and prepare for that conversation.
This website provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice. The organizations listed below are independent of Deaf Refugee Rights Advocates, LLC. We do not guarantee their availability or the outcome of any contact.
Emergency & Crisis Contacts
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, contact these services first.
Emergency Services
Police, fire, or medical emergency
911Tell the dispatcher you are Deaf. You can also text 911 in many areas.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Mental health crisis support — call or text
988Available 24/7. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org. Deaf-accessible via VP and chat.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Domestic violence support
1-800-799-7233TTY: 1-800-787-3224. Also available via chat at thehotline.org.
What to Prepare Before You Call or Write
Having this information ready will help organizations assist you more quickly and effectively.
Describe what happened
Write down the key facts: what was denied or refused, when it happened, and where (the name and address of the organization).
Note who was involved
Write down the names and job titles of any staff members who denied your request, if you know them.
Gather any documents
Collect any letters, emails, appointment records, or other written communications related to the situation.
Know your immigration status (if relevant)
Some organizations may ask about your status to determine which services they can offer. Many provide help regardless of status.
Know your preferred language
Be ready to state that you are Deaf and your preferred communication method (e.g., ASL interpreter, written English, video relay).
Write down your questions
List the specific questions you want answered so you do not forget them during the conversation.
Organizations That Can Help
The following organizations provide free or low-cost assistance. Contact the one that best matches your situation.
Disability Rights — Federal
U.S. Dept. of Justice — ADA Information Line
File ADA complaints, get information about your rights under the ADA.
Dept. of Education — Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
Disability discrimination complaints involving schools and educational programs.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Employment discrimination complaints. File within 180–300 days of the discriminatory act.
Immigration & Refugee Services
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Information about immigration benefits, asylum, and refugee status.
Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)
Federal program providing assistance to refugees, asylees, and other eligible immigrants.
Immigration Advocates Network — Legal Aid Finder
Find free or low-cost immigration legal help near you.
Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing Services
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
Civil rights advocacy for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people. Provides legal referrals and resources.
Deaf Disability Rights (Gallaudet University)
Resources and referrals related to disability rights for Deaf individuals.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)
Free relay services for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people to communicate by phone. Dial 711.
Free Legal Aid
LawHelp.org
Find free civil legal aid organizations in your state.
Legal Services Corporation (LSC)
Federally funded network of legal aid organizations providing free civil legal help to low-income people.
Disability Rights Advocates (DRA)
National nonprofit law firm specializing in high-impact disability rights cases.
Want to understand your rights first?
Read our plain-language guide before reaching out to an organization.