Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson and MOPD Commissioner Rachel Arfa will commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at Malcolm X College in Chicago. The event, which is open to the public and free of charge, aims to honor community partners and highlight innovative employment programs for people with disabilities in the Chicago area. It also marks the 35th anniversary of the formation of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD).
Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his commitment to disability rights, stating, “I honor our City’s disability history and the ongoing fight for disability rights, programs and services, and I am proud to be a champion for our disability community.”
Commissioner Rachel Arfa emphasized the importance of supporting the disability community: “Now more than ever it is important for all of us to honor our disability community and protect our civil and disability rights, programs and services that help all of us live independently and thrive in each of our 77 communities.”
The celebration includes a panel on youth disability employment featuring representatives from After 22, One Summer Chicago, and Project Wright Access. Additionally, there will be performances by choreographer Maggie Bridger, Tellin’ Tales Theatre improv ensemble, and the Tommy Carroll Quartet. The program is supported by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
According to data from MOPD and the Chicago Department of Public Health's Healthy Chicago Survey, more than one in four Chicagoans have a disability. MOPD remains committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all residents with disabilities across city services.
For further details about the ADA 35th Anniversary event, visit chicago.gov/ADA35.