Summary

County Council declares October Disability Awareness Month

Story

County employees representing departments throughout King County join councilmembers in celebrating October as Disability Awareness Month in King County.

When people have the opportunity to use their talents and contribute to society, everyone benefits.

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

Signed into law in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act focuses 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.

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.

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

“Families and communities within King County are enriched by the diversity and perspective of those living with a disability. 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.”
--Council Chair Joe McDermott

“I am proud of all that King County has done to work towards equal opportunities for those with disabilities. The progress that has been made, as well as our commitment to do more, gives us many reasons to celebrate this month!”
--Council Vice Chair Kathy Lambert

“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 every aspect of life in King County. Disability Awareness Month is an opportunity to reaffirm the value of every member of our community.”
--Council Vice Chair Claudia Balducci

“In the only county named after The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we must protect the most vulnerable and ensure that race, class, gender and ability are not barriers to equal protection and equal opportunity for everyone to reach their full potential.”
--Councilmember Larry Gossett

“Those with physical, developmental or other disabilities contribute to and enrich our schools, communities and workplaces. In proclaiming October Disability Awareness month, we recognize these individuals and their impact on us all.”
--Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer

“No one should be denied the opportunity to pursue their dream or their passion because of a disability. During this month, it is important that we remember and celebrate those who have overcome adversity while also doing what we can to tear down barriers to ensure all people in our County have the opportunity to be successful.”
--Councilmember Jeanne Kohl-Welles

“Disability Awareness Month is a celebration and opportunity to recognize those who are using their talents to the benefit of their community and society.”
--Councilmember Reagan Dunn