Local disability rights advocates are commemorating the 24th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The law, which took effect on July 26th 1990, bans discrimination in areas including employment, transportation and government services.
Bruce Darling, the CEO and President of the Center for Disability Rights, says progress has been made, however, there's still room for improvement.
"Where we have not really actually seen a significant increase in the percentage of individuals with disabilities who are employed post-ADA opposed to pre-ADA, and in community living. In fact…people with disabilities are both by and large still forced into institutions."
Last month, dozens of disability advocates protested in Albany for changes to the Nurse Practice Act. It's a law that would allow people with disabilities to live in the community with services and supports. Bruce says they hope to have movement on the measure in the next legislative session.
Darling says disability advocates are working on an effort to change some of the attitudes surrounding people having a disability. It’s called the "Live On” campaign.
"To educate folks and give people a different perspective that there is life after a significant disability."
The Center for Disability Rights recognized Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Morelle and UR Medicine CEO Dr. Brad Berk for their efforts to improve the lives of people with disabilities during its annual gala on Thursday.