(Oneida, NY – July 2015) Several not-for-profit agencies are working together to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act on Friday July 24 at 10 a.m. at the Kallet Civic Center (Main Street, Oneida). The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law by President George Bush on July 26, 1990. The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability.
“The ADA has increased awareness and had an impact on our lives in many ways,” said organizer Jennifer Lea, Independent Living Advocate for ARISE. “Wherever you go today, you can see evidence of the ADA. When you look at entrances of local businesses, you’ll see ramps, automatic door openers, drinking fountains that are lower, and the list just keeps growing.”
“When accessibility issues are addressed by our community what we are saying is everyone is welcome here,” says Christine Sears, Director of Development & PR for The Arc of Madison Cortland. “The Arc is so proud to be a part of this event!”
The celebration will include comments from local, state, and federal officials and leaders as well as a march around the city of Oneida. There will also be information available on tax credits for making businesses accessible.
“This year we will also be showing a video on the history of the ADA and paying tribute to Justin Dart, one of the fathers of the ADA,” said Lea.
Dart was an American activist who advocated for disability rights. After contracting polio, Dart began using a wheelchair. Because of his disability, his college refused to issue him his teaching certificate, even after he earned his degree. This started his long journey as an advocate for people with disabilities. Known as the “Godfather” of the ADA, Justin Dart passed away in 2002, but his legacy lives on.
ARISE, The Arc of Madison Cortland, Madison Motivators, Liberty Resources and Heritage Farm are all working together on this event.
The public is invited to attend and share in this celebration.