Celebrate ADA wins, but more still needed

As president of the Chicago Central Lions Club, the “Mother Club of Lionism,” I am delighted on behalf of our club to salute people with disabilities across the nation as we prepare to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26.

Signed into law by President George H.W. Bush, the ADA has advanced the rights and opportunities for the disabled community. It has promoted greater inclusion and participation for individuals with disabilities, making transportation and public spaces more accessible. The ADA has also helped to increase awareness and reduce stigma around disabilities. Overall, it has been a crucial step toward fostering a more accessible and equitable environment.

The Lions have always had a special bond with the disabled community. Providing funds and extending services to the blind and deaf communities in particular has been a driving force of our mission since we were established in 1917.

While we are proud of the considerable progress that the ADA has accomplished, we realize that more still needs to be done to break down remaining barriers.

Attaining full equality can be achieved by: enhancing physical, digital and social accessibility, promoting more inclusive education and employment practices, strengthening policies and laws that protect the rights of people who have disabilities, fostering better public awareness about disabilities to reduce stigma and discrimination and most importantly involving people who have disabilities in community planning to ensure their needs and perspectives are prioritized.

Our club is committed to doing whatever we can to help realize these goals for our fellow Americans with disabilities.

So, while we celebrate the gains that have been made during the past 35 years, we must roll up our sleeves to bring about a more equitable society for everyone.

Lion Tricia Grant, President,

Chicago Central Lions Club

Chicago