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Iowa Civil Rights Commission: Iowans celebrate independence statewide
7/5/2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Honoring the ADA Ability Project

Independence this 4th of July weekend represents self-determination for people of all ability levels. 20 years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted, so that people with disabilities are able to receive the assistance they may need, while maintaining an independent lifestyle. As part of the ongoing 20th anniversary celebration of the ADA, the Ability Photo Campaign recognizes the ADA and serves as a photographic network of Iowans who celebrate all who work to remove barriers for individuals with disabilities. By posing for a photo with an Iowa-shaped sign that reads, “Celebrate ABILITY,” groups and individuals have publicly shown their support for the ADA, and for persons with disabilities. To learn more about the statewide campaign and to see the Iowa Cubs, Senator Tom Harkin and The Nadas, among others, celebrating ability, visit http://www.adaiowa.webs.com.

Ability Project photos will be on display at the ADA anniversary celebration on the West Terrace of the Capitol on Saturday, July 24th. Scheduled from 10am-2pm, Senator Tom Harkin has been confirmed to speak, and other public officials have been invited. Disability organizations representing the full spectrum of disability, advocacy, service and interest will be present, providing educational and interactive activities for attendees of all ability levels. VSA Iowa artists will also be present, providing art and entertainment for all. This event is sponsored by Principal Financial Group and the Olmstead Consumer Taskforce. More details will follow closer to date.

Both the Ability Project and the ADA anniversary celebration are a part of a statewide effort to raise awareness of the ADA. The ADA planning committee composed of private and public sector groups, AmeriCorps VISTAs, and the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, along with several sponsors are spearheading these efforts. The goal is to celebrate how the ADA has expanded access to services for Iowans of all ability levels, and to generate dialogue concerning barriers yet to be removed. Ralph Rosenberg, ICRC Executive Director says, “It is appropriate to celebrate and commemorate successes, while still pushing for a more inclusive society. This 20th anniversary presents an opportunity to point out how the ADA has helped Iowans of all ability levels.”

Signed into law July 26, 1990 by George H. W. Bush, the ADA ensures equal access, and prohibits discrimination by government agencies, employers, public services based on disability. In Iowa, discrimination based on mental or physical disability is enforced by the Iowa Civil Rights Commission. http://www.state.ia.us/government/crc.

To learn more about the Ability Project or the celebration on the 24th, please visit http://www.adaiowa.webs.com or contact either E.B. DeBruin at Elizabeth.DeBruin@iowa.gov or 515-281-0337 or Shawna Anderson at Shawna.Anderson@iowa.gov or 515-281-0367.

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