The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), along with several other state agencies and councils, hosted a celebratory event to honor the 27th anniversary of the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at the James R. Thompson Center. The interactive and informative event included an art exhibit, entertainment by performers with disabilities, ADA informational workshops, and exhibits from federal, state, and local organizations.
“At IDHS we are committed to a simple motto that many know well, ‘treating people the way we wish to be treated.’ On July 20th we commemorate and celebrate a living doctrine that does just that,” said IDHS Secretary James Dimas. “The Americans with Disabilities Act has been empowering individuals with disabilities to be treated the way we all wish to be treated by enabling them to reach their employment, education, and independent living goals for 27 years. Please join me in celebrating this landmark legislation.”
The ADA celebration included presentations from IDHS Division of Rehabilitation Services Director Quinetta Wade and Illinois Tollway Authority Director Greg Bedalov. ADA informational workshops informed job seekers and employers about the benefits of the ADA, and entertainers with disabilities performed for those in attendance. The entire event was free, accessible, and open to the public.
To further encourage all Illinoisans to reaffirm the principles of equality and inclusion, Governor Bruce Rauner proclaimed July 20, 2017 the Americans with Disabilities Act Day. Governor Rauner’s proclamation is attached.
