OUR WORK

We are building a criminal legal system that works for every body.

At Activating Change, we work to redefine what equity looks like in the criminal legal system by centering the needs and expertise of people with disabilities and Deaf people. These communities are among the most overrepresented—and the least supported—within systems of arrest, detention, prosecution, and incarceration.

We know that real positive change starts by ensuring that everyone is seen, understood, and included. That’s why we work at every level of the system—from courtrooms and correctional facilities to advocacy tables and policy meetings—to push for transformation that is accessible, inclusive, and grounded in disability and Deaf justice.

Our work doesn’t stop at systems change—we also help shift the field of philanthropy itself. We partner with government agencies and funders, including the Department of Justice and the MacArthur Foundation, to embed accessibility into every aspect of grantmaking. From ensuring application processes are inclusive, to training program managers and supporting grantees scaling their work, we’re equipping the field to reach—and reflect—the communities most impacted.

Activating Change’s Resources

Our work includes:

Strengthening Legal Representation

Public defenders are often on the frontlines of justice—but too many are left without the resources or training needed to support Deaf and disabled clients. We’re working to change that.

We train and equip legal professionals with the tools to uphold their clients’ rights, including:

  • Customized training on disability-informed legal advocacy

  • Guidance for identifying and meeting accommodation needs

  • Practical resources for ensuring courtroom access and procedural fairness

In Action: We’ve partnered with public defender offices across the country to embed accessibility standards into intake processes, case management, and courtroom procedures—improving outcomes for clients who had previously been shut out of meaningful defense.

Equipping Systems for Reform

Transforming the criminal legal system requires more than one-time training. It takes long-term shifts in how systems are built, staffed, and held accountable. That’s why we focus on resourcing institutions to lead with access and equity.

Our support includes:

  • Access reviews of physical spaces, policies, and procedures

  • Long-term technical assistance to jurisdictions and agencies

  • Equity-based strategy development aligned with reform goals

In Action: As part of the MacArthur Foundation’s Safety and Justice Challenge, we’ve helped dozens of jurisdictions prioritize access in their decarceration efforts—from redesigning courtroom spaces to updating forms in plain language and accessible formats.. 

Partnering for Change

Disability and Deaf communities must be at the table—and compensated—for their expertise. We help build lasting, equitable partnerships between criminal legal system stakeholders and disability-led organizations.

Our tools and support help bridge these worlds by:

  • Mapping and connecting local organizations to reform initiatives

  • Facilitating shared language and mutual learning between partners

  • Offering toolkits, tip sheets, and examples for immediate use

In Action: Our toolkit, Partnering with Disability Organizations to Enhance Criminal Legal Reforms, is being used by local justice coalitions to co-create policies, facilitate inclusive public meetings, and engage people with lived experience as leaders in reform.

Embedding Access into Everyday Practice

Real change is not just about policies—it’s about implementation. We provide step-by-step guidance to help organizations make their day-to-day work more inclusive:

  • Designing accessible meetings and events

  • Creating plain language materials

  • Working effectively with sign language interpreters

In Action: When a statewide advocacy campaign realized its public town halls were inaccessible, we provided an accommodations questionnaire template, venue guidance, and support for hiring interpreters—ensuring Deaf and disabled participants could engage fully and equally.

Looking Ahead

We’re working toward a future where justice and access are fully integrated—and where those most impacted by incarceration lead the efforts to dismantle it. Every reform, courtroom, and campaign must reflect that truth.

As part of this vision, we’re establishing an advisory council of people with disabilities and Deaf individuals to ensure their perspectives shape our work at every level.

We’re committed to helping systems get there—with the right strategies, trusted relationships, and deep expertise to do it well.