22 being dropped off, or a ride never arrives. Also note if there’s a pattern of excessively long hold times to make a reservation. 2. Communicate your complaint directly to the paratransit service. a. Report any problems while they’re happening. b. File a written complaint and include your documentation of repeated problems. 3. File a complaint with the Federal Transit Administration if your complaint is not resolved. Go to transit.dot.gov and search for “civil rights complaint” for information and a complaint form. Learn More: www.nadtc.org Protecting Our Rights Whether it’s your rights to healthcare, disability insurance, housing, transportation, employment, education, voting, or some other area of life, the changing political landscape offers challenges and opportunities. You can help to protect the rights that have been established to ensure equality for those with disability or chronic illness, and champion further improvements. How? 1. Be aware of your rights Read more about issues affecting people who are disabled or chronically ill. Follow advocacy groups on social media or sign up for their newsletters. 2. Educate others Talk to others about these issues, and explain why they are important to you. Share information at support groups or within your personal network. 3. Get involved in your community Attend city council meetings or town hall sessions. Take note of the issues facing chronically ill and disabled people in your community, and speak up on their behalf. 4. Stay aware of pending legislation Follow the news. Create news alerts that send you articles containing keywords like “disability legislation.” 5. Communicate with your representatives Share your thoughts on pending legislation, or urge your representatives to create legislation to address issues you observe in your community. As you practice these steps, employ the principles of positive advocacy. Employ a nonadversarial approach as you use your knowledge, exercise your power, and influence others to join you in flexing your MS muscle.