Still Work To Do: Greenwich Marks Anniversary Of ADA

GREENWICH, CT — The community gathered at Greenwich Library on Monday morning to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. While those in attendance agreed that there is plenty to celebrate regarding accessibility and inclusion, there is still work that needs to be done.

"We still have to remind ourselves that this is still an everyday obligation," said First Selectman Fred Camillo on fulfilling the ADA. Camillo also issued a proclamation to mark the anniversary, and to encourage residents to do their part in reaffirming the principles of equality and inclusion.

"Every time a building goes up, or something is altered, or a tree is planted or taken down, those of us who get around OK and have access there need to see to it that those of us who have a harder time getting around enjoy those same rights and options. It's something we celebrate, but we also keep our eye on the ball going forward," Camillo added.

The ADA was signed into law on July 26, 1990 by President George H.W. Bush. The law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. The law makes sure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

Alan Gunzburg, chair of the First Selectman's Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities, and a longtime advocate for people with disabilities, called the anniversary "a momentous day."

"Thirty-one years ago today, President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law. It brought forth a lot of changes for people who up until that point were sometimes thought of as second class citizens. They definitely did not have the rights of others. The ADA is a federal mandate that brings forth opportunities for employment, and for the ability to be part of the community," Gunzburg said.

The library served as a meaningful backdrop for the gathering, as Camillo read the proclamation outside of the brand new library cafe, which is run by Abilis and employs 24 Abilis clients. Abilis is nonprofit organization that provides services and supports for over 800 individuals with special needs and their families from birth through the lifespan.

There is also a new, bigger entrance to a more accessible theater in the library.

"On behalf of the entire Abilis organization, I'm very grateful to our community members and our leaders for ensuring equity, inclusion, and opportunities and really making sure the quality of life for those that we support in our community is at the highest," said Abilis President and Chief Executive Officer Amy Montimurro.

Representatives from the Greenwich Department of Public Works were in attendance, as well as local elected officials.

State Rep. Stephen Meskers (D-150) said the ADA is something all Americans can foster.

"I think the ADA reflects back on our common and shared humanity, and our need for patience and kindness, inclusion, and consideration of all of us as Americans," Meskers said after the proclamation reading. "Regardless of whether we are republicans or democrats, regardless of whether we are the minority or the majority, we need to form a more inclusive and accepting society. The ADA takes us one step closer to fulfilling the dream and promise that is America."