ECNV's Be in the Know: March 2026
Here is news of interest for the disability community!
Stay Informed: Monthly Awareness Highlights
All Month: Brain Injury Awareness Month
All Month: Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
All Month: National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month
All Month: National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month
March 21: World Down Syndrome Day
March 22: Rehabilitation Counselor Appreciation Day
March 25: National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day
March 26: Purple Day for Epilepsy
Grant Updates:
Our Bienvenidos Webinar Youtube Library!
Good news!! Our Bienvenidos YouTube Library is complete! Playlists for webinars in Spanish and English have been edited for content, and captions are available in their respective YouTube playlists. You can also still watch the unedited videos as well. Videos from the Provider Series are also available!
Thank you again for your patience!
Transportation News:
Crystal City Construction Update
Construction will be paused during the National Cherry Blossom Festival to avoid major disruptions during one of the region’s busiest travel periods. The Cherry Blossom Festival takes place on the National Mall, and around DC between March 20 - April 12, 2026.
WMATA Transportation Update ››
SPARC's New Mobile Exploration Lab
Very cool news! SPARC has announced that they now have a Mobile Exploration Lab! The Mobile Exploration Lab unit includes a fully equipped sensory room, a 3D print lab to spark creativity and hands-on learning and convertible office nook to support programming and outreach.
This mobile lab will eventually become available at all SPARC centers and was made possible through a Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) award.
Show Support for Driver's Education Curriculum in ASL
Hands United is currently collecting survey responses to demonstrate the need and demand for a nationally accredited Driver’s Education curriculum taught in American Sign Language (ASL).
Today, many Deaf students are expected to learn critical driving concepts through written English or visual materials alone — without full language access. This creates barriers to understanding traffic laws, safety concepts, and licensing requirements.
The survey is available in English and Spanish.
Wings for All at Dulles Airport
Wings for All is a free program that offers families and aviation professionals an airport “rehearsal” to help them become more familiar with air travel procedures.
When: April 18, 2026
Where: Dulles International Airport
Registration is coming soon!
Legislative Updates:
Resolution Alert: Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day
On February 10, 2026, Representative Mike Lawler introduced a resolution to designate September 19, 2026, as Black Autism Acceptance and Awareness Day.
This effort is about advancing understanding, inclusion, and justice, while improving access to services so individuals and families can get the support they need.
Read the Announcement and the Resolution ››
Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit Act
On World Hearing Day, (March 3rd, 2026), Congressman Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced the Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit Act to make hearing aids more accessible for middle to low-income families.
The Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit Act addresses this issue by creating a tax credit targeted to middle to lower income earners. Specifically, the bill would:
Provide tax credit of up to $1,000 for income-qualified taxpayers who purchase a hearing aid.
Cover the purchases of both prescription and over the counter hearing aids.
Access in Action: A Town Hall on Open Captioning Legislation with Del Hernandez
Join the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community for an important and timely virtual town hall focused on open captioning legislation and accessibility in Virginia. This event centers the lived experiences of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Late-Deafened, and DeafBlind individuals and highlights why open captions are essential for full access in public spaces such as movie theaters, live performances, and community events.
Participants will hear directly from Delegate Hernandez, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue about accessibility, equity, and policy.
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 PM (Eastern Time)
Location: Virtual
Registration Required: Zoom
Capacity: Limited to 90 participants
ASL interpreters and CART will be provided. If you need other accommodations, please contact info@nvrc.org.
Follow the Facebook Event for Updates ››
Advocacy:
Tell Congress What’s at Stake for People With Disabilities
On March 24, disability advocates from around the country will meet with members of Congress as part of the Disability Policy Seminar Hill Day.
Can’t join in person? You can still participate by sharing your story from home. Your message will be delivered on Hill Day, reaching your representatives when it matters most.
Medicaid, public education, and Developmental Disabilities (DD) Act programs shape the everyday lives of people with disabilities. But legislators won’t fully understand the impact of these programs unless they hear directly from the people who rely on them.
Learn More About this Action Alert ››
SAVE Act Bill and How it Affects the Disability Community
The SAVE America Act — similar to its predecessor the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act — could silence millions of voters by creating new barriers to voter registration that make it harder for Americans to make their voices heard. If passed, this legislation would make it harder for people with disabilities to vote.
On February 26, 2026, the SAVE Act stalled in the Senate.
Read the National Coalition on Accessible Voting Plain Text on SAVE Act ››
More News to Explore:
ECNV Mourns the Passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson
On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, Reverend Jesse Jackson passed away. In 2017, Jackson disclosed that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. However, doctors determined in April 2025 that he had progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare progressive neurological disorder that is frequently mistaken for Parkinson’s during early stages of the disease.
Read Tributes from the Disability Community.
U.S. Access Board Seeking Public Comments on Universal Changing Stations
The U.S. Access Board is seeking public comments on proposed approaches for technical standards for universal changing stations in medium and large hub airports, and disability community input is crucial. Universal (adult) changing tables allow many disabled people, older adults, and caregivers to safely manage personal care during travel, yet they are still rare in many airports. You can review the Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and submit comments (including stories, concerns, or recommendations) to docket ATBCB-2026-0001.
Learn more ››
Comments are due April 20, 2026.
The Fairfax County All-Access Book Club
The Fairfax County All-Access Book Club meets on the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. via a free conference call. They read a variety of books. Titles selected are available in the talking books and Fairfax County Public Library collections in various formats. The next meeting will be April 2, 2026 and they will be discussing The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
For more information about how to join ››
Free ASL Classes and Activities at DC Public Libraries
Did you know that the DC Public Library has ASL classes for beginners, intermediate and advanced learners?
Do you love to read and talk about books? Are you interested in participating in a book discussion on Zoom in American Sign Language? If so, this book club is for YOU! Join the DC Public Library online via Zoom on a Wednesday every other month at 6-7 p.m. Eastern Time. The ASL Book Club is facilitated by Librarian Janice Rosen from the Center for Accessibility. Questions? Contact at DCPLaccess@dc.gov. The next meeting will be on March 25, 2026 and they will talk about Remarkably Bright Creatures, by Shelby Van Pelt.
Deaf Seniors Stay Connected Program
Dates: Tuesdays, January 13, 2026 through December 15, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM EST
This program is for ASL interpreting students or lifelong ASL students to practice ASL and communicate with Deaf seniors virtually. Examples of the topics are ASL slang, short stories and many fun games.
Information provided will be kept confidential and used only for grant reporting and program improvement purposes.
If you have questions, please contact Barbara Eger-Klatt.
Register today if you like to participate ››
DARS Website Refresh
The Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) has introduced a revamped public website aimed at enhancing services for individuals with disabilities, older adults, caregivers, and their families.
The web address remains unchanged, www.dars.virginia.gov, but the site now presents a fresh appearance and a more straightforward method for locating programs, services, and resources.
The redesigned site was created with inclusivity as a priority. It includes improved navigation, comprehensive maps and directories, compatibility with screen readers and other assistive technologies, as well as open-captioned videos. Visitors are invited to explore the updated pages and become acquainted with the new layout. Local departments are also encouraged to disseminate information regarding the new website to professional partners and community members.
2026 Directory of Services for People who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deafblind
On Thursday, February 19, 2026, Virginia Department for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (VDDHH) published their 2026 Directory of Services for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deafblind Virginians. Per their website: “The list of resources is not meant to be exhaustive and will be updated periodically. This list is intended to be a helpful starting point for persons seeking services, but further assessment of any resource is the responsibility of those persons.”
Informed Consent - Training for Parents of Youth with Disabilities
This session explains what informed consent really means—understanding information, asking questions, and agreeing before decisions are made. Learn the basic principles behind informed consent, why it matters in all services and supports, and how it is used in Vocational Rehabilitation to help your child make confident, informed choices about their future.
Sessions to choose from:
Tuesday, March 24, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Presented by PEATC in partnership with DARS
This webinar will be presented on Zoom. It will not be recorded.
New Disabled South Report - Project Eugenics: Disability Rights Rollbacks
The recent report by New Disabled South, titled "Project Eugenics: Disability Rights Rollbacks," presents significant updates regarding the extensive efforts by the current administration to undermine essential laws, protections, and programs that individuals with disabilities critically depend on.
This report contextualizes these rollbacks within a broader historical framework of eugenics and state-sanctioned violence against disabled individuals. It delineates a governing approach characterized by dismantling, punitive measures, and dehumanization, while also detailing the immediate repercussions across various sectors, including healthcare, education, immigration, housing, employment, and public benefits.
Interested in further information? Read the Report ››
DREDF Report - Immigrant Rights are Disability Rights: ICE & Law Enforcement Violence Must End
Individuals with disabilities encounter a heightened risk of violence and detention by DHS agents, while disabled individuals of color experience an even greater threat of violence from law enforcement overall, as highlighted in a recent article titled, The Danger ICE Poses to the Disabled Community by Alison Stine. The dehumanization, intimidation, and violence directed at immigrants and all marginalized groups in the United States must cease, and funding from DHS for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) kidnappings and detentions must be terminated.
The Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) has released a report entitled, “Immigrant Rights are Disability Rights: ICE & Law Enforcement Violence Must End.”
Deaf Arts Directory Is Live
DeafArtsDirectory.com is LIVE!
If you are an:
Artist who is Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled and Hard of Hearing
Disability-led Business or Organization that serves and supports Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled and Hard of hearing artists and their work
Then you are eligible and welcome to participate in the Art Directory!
Deaf Arts Directory is currently maintained by Deaf Spotlight with many thanks to Howl Round’s Deaf Theater Action Planning, Black Disabled Creatives, B. Hawbaker, volunteers and supporters for the push.
Maryland Tap 3D Prints Assistive Tech!
Maryland TAP 3D prints Assistive Tech for you! Pick a 3D printed item from the catalogue, choose a color, and have one fabricated just for you! Don’t see what you’re looking for? Reach out to us at 410-554-9230 or mdtap.general@maryland.gov to see if we can help. There is no limit to how many items you can request - just submit multiple forms, or get in touch to request numerous items. However, the more items you request, the longer it may take for us to fabricate them and get them to you.
*This service reserved for Maryland residents
IFSP Community Invites Persons with DD to Join IFSP Regional Councils
The Individual and Family Support Program (IFSP) is looking for people with developmental disabilities (DD) and/or self-advocates to join three of their IFSP Regional Councils!
You'll become part of a dedicated group of volunteers who help the Virginia Dept. of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) make things better for people with DD and their families.
WHAT YOU'LL DO AS AN IFSP COUNCIL MEMBER:
Grow leadership skills;
Build community connections;
Learn about Virginia's developmental disability service system;
Help DBHDS make information easier to understand and share;
Meet other people who share your passion for helping others with developmental disabilities!
... and more!
WHO CAN APPLY TO JOIN A COUNCIL?
People with DD and/or self-advocates over the age of 18;
People with DD and/or self-advocates who live in the IFSP Western Region, the IFSP Northern Region, and the IFSP Central Region (check out our map: https://ifsp.tny.cc/regional-map); and
People who are on the DD Waivers Waitlist, receiving DD Waiver services, or living independently
HOW DO I JOIN?
Apply online by Monday, March 23rd: surveymonkey.com/r/IFSP-Regional-2026
WHAT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS?
Please email: IFSPCommunity@dbhds.virginia.gov
Safer Dating for Youth on the Autism Spectrum
Safer Dating for Youth on the Autism Spectrum is a free guide, written by researchers at Boston Medical Center. This curriculum can be used to educate autistic young adults about how to build and maintain healthy relationships in college.
Download this resource today ››
Open Caption Finder App
Open Caption Finder is a free app, available on Apple Store and Google Play that helps moviegoers find Open Caption (OC) showtimes nearby or anywhere in the US.
What are Open Captions?
Open Captions are subtitles displayed directly on the movie screen, no special glasses or devices needed. Unlike Closed Captions, everyone in the theater can see them.
Connect and Engage: Join Our Social Circle
ECNV’s Social Group will take place March 27, 2026.
Location: &Pizza at Springfield Towne Center
Time: 6:00pm
If you're interested in joining us, please email us at info@ecnv.org. Come join us to chat about anything you'd like including current events, what's happening with you, exciting plans and anything else you'd like to chat about in a fun and safe environment over a delicious meal.
ENDependents Social Group Sign Up ››
Research Opportunities:
Acculturative Stress, Psychosomatic Symptoms, and Psychological Well-Being in Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Adults
The Univesity of Rochester Medical Center is conducting a research study on Deaf acculturative stress and how stress can cause physiological effects in the body. They are looking for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing and are 18 years or older. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between acculturative stress, psychosomatic symptoms, and psychological well-being in Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, and if American Sign Language (ASL) can affect the way that Deaf people experience acculturative stress and these physiological effects of stress.
Ableism Study
This study is seeking input from disabled people and disability advocates to better understand how ableism shows up in everyday life and how it can be addressed. The research is grounded in disability community leadership, and participant perspectives are essential to informing its findings.
To support participant safety and ensure a manageable and meaningful research process, recruitment for this study is being conducted by email.
You can learn more about the study, including eligibility and how to participate, by selecting the button below.
The National Survey on Health and Disability
The National Survey on Health and Disability (NSHD) is an ongoing survey of adults with disabilities, conducted five times previously in 2018, 2019/2020, 2021, 2022, 2023/2024.
The 2025 NSHD is NOW CLOSED ››
Note: The 2025 National Survey on Health and Disability (NSHD) is now closed. It will likely reopen late 2026.
Does your bladder bug you?
Do you have a neurogenic/neuropathic bladder and use indwelling or intermittent catheterization for bladder management? If so, we would like to invite you to participate in a study using a probiotic to decrease urinary symptoms.
For more information, please contact: Chris Riegner christopher.r.riegner@medstar.net or 202-877-1560
MedStar Health is looking for participants for a urinary symptoms study (#NCT05230511).
Events for Learning, New Opportunities and Advocacy
March
Addressing Food Insecurity for People Living Alone With Dementia, (virtual), 3/17/26, 2:00pm - 3:00pm.
Camping Basics: An Indoor Adventure, (in-person), 3/17/26, 10:00am - 1:00pm, Thomas Jefferson Regional Library, 7415 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church, VA 22042.
Onward to Preschool: Taking the Big Step from Early Intervention!, (virtual), 3/18/26, 1:30pm.
Investment Fraud for Caregivers, (virtual), 3/18/26, 12:00pm - 1:00pm.
Developmental Disabilities (DD) and the Sibling Journey, (virtual), 3/19/26, 6:00pm - 8:15pm.
Mental Health First Aid Training, (virtual or in-person), 3/19/26, 8:00am - 5:00pm.
Social Security Success, (in-person), 3/20/26, The Arc of Northern Virginia.
Special Education Family Conference, (in-person), 3/21/26, 8:30am - 3:30pm, George C. Marshall High School.
Interacting with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals, (virtual), 3/24/26, 7:00pm.
Training on Informed Consent, (virtual), 3/24/26, 6:00pm - 7:00pm.
Supporting the Whole Family: Disability Through the Adult Sibling Lens, (virtual), 3/24/26, 6:00pm - 7:30pm.
Diploma Options and Graduation Requirements for Students with IEPS, (virtual), 3/26/26, 12:00pm - 1:00pm.
April
Words Matter: Best Practices for Disability-Inclusive Language, (virtual), 4/2/26, 1:30pm.
Training on Informed Consent, (virtual), 4/8/26, 6:00pm - 7:00pm.
Going to College with a Disability, (virtual), 4/9/26, 6:00pm.
Medicare, Medicaid, and Long-Term Care: What You Need to Know, (virtual), 4/15/26, 12:00 pm - 1:00pm.
