Effective Communication: The ADA and Law Enforcement

A majority of law enforcement activity involves communicating information, and effective communication is a critical responsibility of law enforcement personnel. When effective communication is denied to people with disabilities, there can be a significant negative impact on the administration of justice. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations require law enforcement personnel to provide individuals with communication disabilities an equal opportunity to communicate and to take steps to ensure effective communication.

This webinar will review:

• Importance of effective communication for people with disabilities, specifically those with hearing loss, in law enforcement activities, and consequences of inadequate access and oversight.
• Overview of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication.
• Communication strategies and other types of accommodations, such as environmental considerations.

Presenter: Michael Richardson directs the Northwest ADA Center and is responsible for coordinating the activities of the Technical Assistance Unit. He has personal experience with hearing loss and involvement in the Deaf Community and specializes in providing information on accessibility and effective communication for people who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.

• This webinar will be presented via the Blackboard Collaborate Web Conferencing platform. We recommend that you prepare your technology prior to the session. Visit Blackboard Collaborate Installation and follow the instructions to check your system's configuration. 
• Real-Time American Sign Language (ASL) video feed will be available through the Blackboard Collaborate Web Conferencing System.
• Real-Time Captioning will be provided via the Blackboard Collaborate Web Conferencing System.
• A telephone conference option will also available should you choose not to use the webinar platform.
• Information on accessing the webinar platform and the telephone conference number will be provided prior to the session.

Screen Reader Users: Individuals who are using Screen Reader Software should review the instructions and information available on-line at: Accessibility Guide for Blackboard Collaborate Web Conferencing.

WEBINAR HANDOUTS

Presentation handouts will be available within 48 hours prior to the webinar session date.