The Rehabilitation Act Turns 50 – online events 9/27 & 9/28

FROM the Administration for Community Living (ACL)

September 26, 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of the  Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the first civil rights legislation protecting disabled people from discrimination. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in programs receiving federal financial assistance or conducted by federal agencies, in federal employment, and in the employment practices of federal contractors. A powerful law in its own right, the Rehab Act also paved the way for the Americans with Disabilities Act and other advancements in disability rights. 

In addition, the Rehab Act created the Independent Living Services program, the Centers for Independent Living program, and the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, all of which are part of ACL today.

While there is still work to be done, the law shepherded a new era in disability rights and it serves as a cornerstone in a foundation we continue to build upon today. 

UPCOMING EVENTS (all times Eastern)

Rehabilitation Act 50th Anniversary Roundtable Discussion

The Senate Committee on Aging will host this event on September 27 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM in SVC 200. Senator Casey will provide remarks. The event will be livestreamed and ASL and CART will be available.

Link to Senate Committee on Aging: https://www.aging.senate.gov/ Live link may not appear until just prior to event.

Exploring the past, present, and future of independent living 

The second webinar will envision the future of the independent living movement by understanding the work of the next generation of youth and young leaders and how their voices and experiences are shaping its future.   

Part 2: The Rehab Act at 50: Our Future — Youth and Young Adult Engagement and Involvement in Disability Advocacy
September 28 at 4 p.m. | Register for Part 2 of the ACL webinar series

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYof-2qqDsuHNamWCb7RvFaXClXYzlvgZqa#/registration