On Wednesday, July 24th, a Durango-based support group for people with disabilities celebrated the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Clark Adomaitis has more.
CLARK: In Durango’s Memorial Park overlooking the Animas River, dozens of community members and people with disabilities came to an annual barbecue hosted by the Southwest Center for Independence.
The organization provides services like transportation and housing vouchers for hundreds of people with disabilities in Durango.
President George H. W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law on July 26 1990. The law mandates accessibility in public spaces and at private businesses nationwide.
KELSEY BELL: The city of Durango has done a great job of ensuring accessibility for public buildings that are owned by the city and transportation that is operated by the city.
CLARK: Kelsey Bell is the Executive Director of the Southwest Center for Independence.
KELSEY BELL: I think where we really are still lacking is when it comes to private businesses within the city. it limits people with disabilities ability to participate fully in our community.
CLARK: Bell wants to see more awareness about disability issues among elected officials and city administrators in Durango.
For KSUT and KSJD, I’m Clark Adomaitis.
