Living in the Community & Fighting Discrimination
People with disabilities have the right to be integrated in the community with nondisabled people. They cannot be forced to live in institutions in order to receive services. Community living can work for everyone.
Your right to live in the community
Community living can work for anyone, no matter what their type of disability. People with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities, including people with extremely severe disabilities, can live in the community on their own or with help from others.
Community living has many benefits for people with disabilities and helps with diversity.
FAQs about community living and fighting discrimination
Below are FAQs on different topics about moving into the community, getting help to stay in the community, and using your legal right to access public and government spaces.
- Living in the Community & Fighting Discrimination, Right to Leave Residential Facilities, Right to Services in Different Settings
- Living in the Community & Fighting Discrimination
- Living in the Community & Fighting Discrimination
- Living in the Community & Fighting Discrimination, Right to Leave Residential Facilities
- Living in the Community & Fighting Discrimination
Benefits of community living
People with disabilities generally have the same wants and needs as nondisabled people, like:
- Choosing who you want to live with
- Having private space
- Socializing with friends and family
- Choosing what and when to eat
- Hiring people you like to help you with activities of daily living
- Decorating your living space
- Doing work (paid and volunteer) that you enjoy
- Going to community events
- Having guests over
- Choosing when to go to sleep and when to wake up
- Going to places you like, including movie theaters, parks, museums, and concerts
