On Sunday, July 27, Acton’s Commission on Disabilities (COD) hosted a picnic commemorating the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed into law by President George H.W. Bush 35 years earlier, almost to the day, on July 26, 1990. The landmark legislation’s aim is to protect people with disabilities from discrimination in employment, education, public spaces, and transportation. About 25 people attended, despite the rain, and everyone stayed dry as they enjoyed a lunch of sandwiches, fruit, chips, and cookies under NARA Park’s bath house pavilion. The picnic was planned as an opportunity to make connections, have fun, and be supportive.
COD member Melissa Wingfield, who was responsible for the bulk of the event organizing, offered opening remarks. She noted that Acton’s COD was founded in 1987 by two residents, one who is still a member. Current members are co-founder Joan Burrows, Lisa Franklin, Leslie Johnson, John Gianetto, Pesha Kokis, and Wingfield. Acton’s DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) Director, Wanjiku Gachugi, offers essential staff support. The commission’s work is focused on advocacy, ensuring Town compliance with disability rights laws and regulations, education, and community building. Wingfield noted that the Commission works “to protect the rights and interests of people with disabilities and their families in Acton.”
Everyone who attended was given an Acton COD button with a slogan originating in the disability rights movement: “Nothing about us without us.” Wingfield explained that the phrase “emphasizes the importance of including people with disabilities when making decisions and creating policies that impact their lives.” She added that the ADA, in addition to protecting against discrimination, “helps people with disabilities and their families to have a greater sense of autonomy, control over their own lives, and inclusion.”
To learn more about the Acton Commission on Disabilities, visit www.acton-ma.gov/90/Commission-on-Disabilities.
Alissa Nicol is a member of the Acton Select Board and reports on community events for the Acton Exchange.