Our agency is a proud member of the AJFCA (the Association of Jewish Family & and Children’s Agencies). I’m happy to share some reflections from the President and CEO’s weekly newsletter. Thank you to Lee I. Sherman, for allowing us to post your words. We certainly share in your sentiments.

“Sunday is the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H. W. Bush. This civil rights law which prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in all areas of public life has been a “game changer” for all of us, regardless of our abilities. In the 25 years since the ADA became law, the United States has become a more inclusive and sensitive society. Better? Yes. Done? No. (…)

The passage of the ADA was an important milestone in the history of civil rights in the U.S. But, while the law guarantees equal access, the implementation continues to be a challenge. And, there are others on the margins of our society who continue to face discrimination.  The ADA should be a model for what is possible for all. (…)

We are all in this together and there is much work yet to be done. As President Bush said 25 years ago: ‘Let the shameful wall of exclusion finally come tumbling down’.”

Lee, we echo your voice and so long as discrimination exists, let us be inspired to make change.