Several not-for- profit agencies are working together to commemorate the 26th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act on Friday, July 22, at 10 a.m., at the Kallet Civic Center (Main St., 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,” says 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.
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.