Message from the President and CEO, Cass Isidro
Allies around the world including the Amputee Coalition commit daily to the work and recognize disability rights as human rights noting that there are achievements and pinnacle moments in time where reflection of our work allows time for celebration. This month and in our daily missional passion for disability and overall human rights we celebrate alongside our nation as we honor the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signed into law on July 26, 1990, making life-changing pathways for Americans with disabilities to be fully included in our society. This date changed our collective communities forever by making progress, creating protections, and seeking equality by holding leaders accountable. The Amputee Coalition will continue to hold ourselves to a high standard of excellence to be allies for human rights.
Over the years, the ADA has paved the way for numerous advancements in accessibility, advocating for essential features like ramps, elevators, and wider doorways in public places, creating a more inclusive society. The ADA has encouraged employers to focus on providing reasonable accommodations, allowing people with disabilities to participate fully in the workforce and contribute to the growth of our nation.
If you have been partners with us for any amount of time you know the Amputee Coalition has evolved in many ways, but the heart of the mission has never wavered from the daily drive and passion to serve the 4 million plus Americans living with limb loss and limb difference. With our newly adapted vision: A world where our community thrives and a mission to support, educate, and advocate for people living with limb loss and limb difference we are encouraged to stay in the arena for continued progress.
If you are like us, you can feel the change happening as state, Federal, and grassroots victories are accelerating access, accessibility, and intersectional inclusivity to elevate all to have equal rights. We know much work is ahead and we are more equipped to be the National organization leading the fight for equity, policy advocacy, sharing resources throughout the country, elevating, and sharing community victories, and creating distinct change for the limb loss and limb difference community than ever before…. this is who we are. The Amputee Coalition is here to lead, follow, and serve, offering a welcoming place where community happens and where together no amputee is left alone. We are elevating each other, our communities, and our impact on future generations.
I encourage us all to reflect on the impact of the ADA on our society and let us celebrate the achievements of those who fought tirelessly to make the ADA a reality and those who continue the work.
As we move forward, let us carry the spirit of the ADA and continue striving to make our workplace, communities, and the world more inclusive, supportive, and accessible for all. I look forward to more years of change and impact to continue to elevate our collective community.