MTA Evacuation Instruction DVD Not Captioned!!!

December 6, 2006

A note from Ms. Claudia Gordon to John Benison of Department of Transportation and Cheryl King Department of Homeland Security.

Cheryl and John:

I received a constituent inquiry regarding the lack of captioning of an evacuation instruction DVD released by NYC MTA for its transit subway stations. The DVD was released in September as part of National preparedness Month. I have not viewed the instructional DVD in entirety to confirm that it indeed lack captioning. Click onto the below link to view a clip:

http://www.mta.info/nyct/evacuation/evacuation.htm

My understanding is that the new evacuation instruction posted in all NYC subway cars during the month of September and is available for those who request it on line or by phone. In addition to captioning of the DVD, we should also question the availability of such instructions in alternative format for individuals with vision disabilities and individuals who do not speak English.

We each know that Title II of the ADA governs accessibility of State and local government services, programs, and activities in regards to people with disabilities, as well as section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act if federal dollars are also involved. I would be happy to collaborate with you on appropriate follow-up action(s).

Best regards,

Claudia L. Gordon
Senior Policy Advisor
Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
Department of Homeland Security
(202) 357-8327 (v)
(202) 357-8346 (tty)
(202) 357-8298 (f)
claudia.gordon@dhs.gov