The ACLU of Washington filed a lawsuit against Washington D.C. after learning that the city failed to send professionals to mental health calls.
The ACLU of Washington accuses city officials of a breach of rights. (Photo: Pexels)
What is the ACLU of Washington?
The American Civil Liberties Union of Washington D.C., also known as ACLU of Washington, is a group of advocates who are fighting for everybody’s rights and freedom. According to its website, the ACLU of Washington protects its members and DC residents through education and advocacies.
Also, the ACLU of Washington also works with other agencies to ensure that everyone should be treated fairly and equally.
When discrimination against PWDs appeared in the city, the ACLU of Washington was their shield to fight for them and dismantle such cases.
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Photo: Pexels
ACLU of Washington sues D.C. For Failing to Send Professionals to Respond to Mental Health Emergencies
Recently, the ACLU of Washington filed a lawsuit after discovering that the city sends police officers to mental health calls. According to the appeal filed by the ACLU of Washington, failing to send professionals to mental health emergencies is a “breach of the Americans with Disabilities Act.”
“Someone who calls 911 for a physical health emergency gets trained medical providers who can treat and stabilize them. But someone who calls 911 for a mental health emergency gets a police officer with handcuffs and a gun,” said Susan Mizner of the ACLU of Washington, as quoted by the Independent.
As per the report, the ACLU of Washington accuses Washington officials of sending professionals to only 1% of the mental health calls, while the EMTs and paramedics are usually sent to 99% of cases.
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