Summary

Today’s proclamation recognizes local and national efforts to provide accommodations that allow those with physical, developmental and other disabilities to utilize their skills and talents and contribute to their workplaces and communities.

Story

Councilmembers are joined by representatives from the King County Office of Civil Rights and the Department of Community and Human Services after the Council proclaimed the month of October “Disability Awareness Month” in King County

The Metropolitan King County Council today recognized the talents and contributions of citizens with temporary or permanent disabilities with its declaration of the month of October as Disability Awareness Month in King County.

“Today’s proclamation celebrates the many contributions that individuals with disabilities bring to strengthen, diversify and brighten King County,” said Council Chair Joe McDermott. “We must continue to strive to address the injustices that linger and remove the barriers that remain, so that all lives are equally valued, no matter ability.”

The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law in 1990, and its focus on protecting the civil rights of citizens with disabilities continues to ensure that people, regardless of their disability, are an active part of their communities.

“When everyone is accepted and allowed to be an active member of the community, we all benefit,” said Councilmember Larry Gossett. “This proclamation is a reminder that everyone has talents that should be recognized and celebrated.”

“Disabilities are not inabilities,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer. “In proclaiming October Disability Awareness month, we recognize the unique contributions and talents that those with physical, developmental or other disabilities bring to our community and workplaces.”

“The ADA has been such a powerful force in support of people with disabilities. I’m also very proud of all that King County has done to ensure equality for all those with disabilities,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert. “But there is still more to be done and the progress that has been made is a very good reason to celebrate this special month and to increase awareness of the needs.”

Today’s proclamation recognizes local and national efforts to provide accommodations that allow those with physical, developmental and other disabilities to utilize their skills and talents and contribute to their workplaces and communities.

“Disability Awareness Month is an opportunity to reaffirm the value of every member of our community,” said Councilmember Claudia Balducci. “All people, with all of their unique abilities and talents, contribute to our collective success and quality of life, and all people deserve the opportunity to fully participate in the life of King County.”

“Our diversity is our strength,” said Councilmember Jeanne Kohl-Welles, Chair of the Health, Housing and Human Services Committee. “Disability Awareness Month is a great opportunity to recognize and celebrate all the variously abled individuals who strengthen our community through their talents and qualifications.”

The proclamation also recognizes the continuing effort to expand opportunities and increase awareness and acceptance of all people.

 
WHEREAS, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has ensured the civil rights of people with disabilities since July 26, 1990, with the legislation establishing a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, the ADA and other disability legislation over the last 70 years have expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities by reducing barriers, changing perception, increasing access, and expanding opportunities; and

WHEREAS, King County government has been a leader in creating meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities to have full access to education, transportation, employment, health care, court services, voting, recreation, and emergency preparedness; and

WHEREAS, we recognize that our work to expand opportunity and confront the social barriers that persist around disabilities is not finished and that we can always strive to promote acceptance and understanding of the richness of diversity; and

WHEREAS, we must continue to address the injustices that linger and remove the barriers that remain, so that all lives are equally valued, no matter the ability; and

WHEREAS, we recognize that inclusion drives innovation, and that welcoming the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, is a critical part of our efforts to build a more exceptional and inclusive workforce and community; and

WHEREAS, King County renews its pledge to extend the promise of the American dream to all our people and recommits to promoting a county free of barriers, discrimination, and prejudice, that fosters respect and dignity for those living with disabilities;

NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Metropolitan King County Council, proclaim October 2017 as

in King County and celebrate the many contributions and ways individuals with disabilities strengthen our workforce, our communities, and our county.

DATED this second day of October, 2017.