Our Story
Disability Independence Group was established in 2002 to address the significant lack of representation for persons with disabilities in the legal profession. This gap has led to inadequate outcomes in cases of disability discrimination, as many legal professionals struggle to relate to the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. In collaboration with the Florida Bar, DIG initiated a disability initiative in 2003 aimed at fostering inclusion and diversity within the legal system. This initiative focused on identifying and removing barriers—attitudinal, communicational, and architectural—that hinder access to the Florida court system.
Over the years, DIG has launched several impactful projects, including The Wallet Card® Project in 2011, which empowers individuals with disabilities to communicate their needs to law enforcement. In partnership with the National Fair Housing Alliance, DIG produced a series of ten videos in American Sign Language (ASL) to educate the community on Fair Housing and Fair Lending issues in 2012.
In 2015, DIG began addressing the intersection of disability and abuse through The Miami Inclusion Alliance, aiming to improve services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault who are persons with disabilities. The Supper Social Club, initiated in 2018, fosters community connections among individuals with disabilities and their families.
As a founding member of Access the Vote Florida, DIG advocates for the voting rights of persons with disabilities, ensuring their voices are heard in the democratic process. The organization has also developed the Animal Partner Project to support abused children in foster care, providing them with therapeutic facility dogs.
From 2014 to 2022, DIG established a litigation department to combat disability discrimination effectively. Currently, DIG focuses on enhancing community training on disability issues and expanding The Wallet Card Project and The Supper Social Club.