(Bel Air, MD) – – The Harford County Department of Community Services Commission on Disabilities will mark the 19th Anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at its meeting on July 27th at 5:00 p.m. at the historic “Bel Air Colored High School.” The public is invited to attend. The ADA, which was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush on July 26, 1990, is a civil rights law that prohibits, under certain circumstances, discrimination based on disability.
The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2007 American Community Survey estimates that 12.3% of Harford County residents five years of age and older have a disability. The Survey further concludes that while 43.6% of individuals with disabilities 16 to 64 years of age are employed, 78.9% of their non-disabled counterparts are employed.
“The Americans with Disabilities Act is the most important statement of the rights of people with disabilities in the history of the United States,” said Commission Chairperson Marc Weinstein. “However, we recognize that while the ADA prohibits discrimination, attitudes cannot be legislated. To change mindsets, we must educate and influence. This 19th Anniversary reminds us that we have more work to do to ensure that all people with disabilities have access and opportunity to participate in all aspects of community life.”
“The Commission on Disabilities represents the voice of the disability community in county government, ensuring we remain focused on keeping the promise of the ADA in Harford County,” stated County Executive David R. Craig. In a proclamation recognizing the anniversary of the ADA, County Executive Craig encouraged citizens of Harford County to “…join me in renewing our commitment to equality of access and opportunity for all people.”
The Commission on Disabilities meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 5:00 p.m. at the historic “Bel Air Colored High School,” 205 Hays Street, in Bel Air. For more information call 410-638-3373 voice/TTY, email disability@harfordcountymd.gov or visit the Commission’s webpage at www.harfordcountymd.gov/services/disabilities.
The Harford County Commission on Disabilities was established in 1995 to serve as the voice of the disability community in Harford County. Members are appointed by the county executive with the approval of the county council.
The Harford County Department of Community Services was established in 1979 via Executive Order and works daily to meet the needs of our seniors, youth, persons with disabilities and those struggling to overcome addiction. The Department works with federal, state, local and private agencies to ensure our county continues to evolve and remains dedicated to providing the best possible services for our citizens and community.
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