ADA legal aid needed to mediate access barriers to education
Donation protected
Although only two semesters of my undergraduate career remain, accessibility barriers may keep me from completing my degree. Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and English. Since I arrived at my college as a transfer student in the fall of 2023, I have encountered access issues related to my chronic joint/connective tissue condition and Autistic identity:
- Retaliation when access issues were addressed (suspected).
- Negligence and disparaging comments from administrative members who hold the responsibility to protect student welfare (suspected).
- Denial of academic accommodations (suspected).
- Threatening language (suspected).
- Reprimand for not masking my Autism (suspected).
- Demands to change my neurodivergent affect and presentation of chronic pain (suspected).
- Many more instances of concern (suspected).
This fundraiser will provide me with the means to make monthly payments to my disability rights attorney. I could be in debt for months to years. Pro bono services, unfortunately yet unsurprisingly, have reached their maximum capacity in North Carolina. This leaves me with no other option than to proceed with the high costs of private legal representation.
Concerns are related to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). I intend for these grievances to be mediated between my attorney, Davidson College, and the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights. I do not anticipate or want these grievances to be settled in court.
Thank you for your support as I try to finish my degree during this difficult time. I am grateful to my friends, relatives, medical team, and advocates who continue to be there for me.
Organizer
Kendyl Brown
Organizer
Huntersville, NC