New resources released by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights focusing on safeguarding students with disabilities in K12 and higher education

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) unveiled three fresh guides today aimed at students, parents, families, and schools, focusing on the civil rights of students living with sickle cell disease, epilepsy, and cancer. These resources were released in a month dedicated to both World Sickle Cell Day and National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week.

The guides provide insights to students with disabilities, their families, and educational institutions about their legal rights under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Section 504 prohibits discrimination against students with disabilities in institutions that receive federal financial aid, encompassing nearly all public schools and higher education institutions. The resources are applicable across all education levels and outline the circumstances under which these medical conditions initiate protections under Section 504, necessary modifications institutions may need to implement to prevent discrimination, and actions to rectify past discriminatory practices.

OCR oversees the enforcement of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which bars discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that over 90% of individuals with sickle cell disease in the U.S. are of Black descent. Black Americans exhibit a higher likelihood of active epilepsy compared to White and Hispanic Americans, and they also have increased rates of cancer incidence and mortality when contrasted with other racial and ethnic groups. OCR ensures compliance with all relevant laws within its jurisdiction during investigations.

“These novel resources equip students grappling with sickle cell disease, epilepsy, or cancer, along with their families and schools, with crucial information on federal disability rights laws’ protections,” stated Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Catherine E. Lhamon.

The updated resources pertaining to sickle cell disease, epilepsy, and cancer can be accessed on the OCR website.