“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ― Margaret Mead
This Sunday marks the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), prohibiting discrimination based on disability. The ADA law was born out of the human rights movements for racial, economic, and gender equity that preceded it, but the tragic events that have shaken our country over the last few months are further examples that legislation alone does not bring an abrupt end to discrimination, oppression, and outright violence toward those whom it is designed to protect.
The Here and Now Project recognizes that the fight for inclusion and equality persists. As important as speaking out is, it is not enough. Now more than ever, it is imperative that we take a more intersectional approach to eradicate discrimination based on disability, race, gender or sexual orientation. Our mission to connect and empower the paralysis community depends on our ability to be inclusive of all voices and experiences, both on an individual level as well as within the communities we serve. It is only by doing so that we can help build a more equitable and accessible future for us all.