Board proclaims July 2010 Americans with Disabilities Month

July 8, 2010

The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners commemorated the 20 year anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by declaring the month of July 2010 as Americans with Disabilities Month. The commissioners signed the proclamation ADA Proclamation (10.54 KB) during the board meeting on July 8, during which they heard comments from ADA Technical Specialist David G. Miller.

The milestone act, passed into law in 1990, protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination, much like the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The act strives to ensure accessibility and equality for individuals with disabilities in the public, professional and academic spheres. Its passage has not only expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities, but changed perceptions by promoting principles of equality and inclusion.

According to the 2000 Census, Multnomah County is home to over 100,000 people with disabilities. Multnomah County is committed to helping these residents face diverse challenges and live as independently as possible. 

The County’s Department of Aging and Disability Services works to remove barriers by ensuring residents living with disabilities have access to transportation, health care, housing and culturally relevant services. Through community partnerships and advocacy, the county works with residents to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by people living with disabilities.

ADA Proclamation