400 attend event honoring Americans With Disabilities Act

On July 17, over 400 guests joined a community event hosted by Disability Network Mid-Michigan (DNMM) to celebrate the thirty-fourth anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

DNMM hosts this free picnic-style celebration to educate community members on
the importance of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act and its impact. It also serves as an opportunity to highlight accessible recreation in our region and to celebrate the value of all Americans with disabilities. 

The event, held at William H. Haithco Recreation Area, featured live music provided by Stone Street Revival, food from local vendors, lawn games, and accessible recreation opportunities. 

Handcycles and putt-putt golf were available, along with park amenities such as an accessible merry-go-round, play area, splash pad, and water-access wheelchair. Nearly 30 community organizations had information tables showcasing resources available in the area.

In addition to the picnic atmosphere of the event, information about the ADA –
including quotes from various disability advocates, which were placed throughout the park.

A large timeline showing the history of the disability rights movement leading up to the passage of the ADA in 1990 adorned a banner. Display banners and signs were spread throughout the grounds, offering perspectives on what life was like before the ADA for people with disabilities and how things have changed over the last three decades.

“The ADA guaranteed access to transportation, communications technology,
employment, government buildings, and public spaces for people with disabilities,” says Kelly PeLong, DNMM Executive Director.

“It was sweeping civil rights legislation - the first of its kind in the world - that sought to make our communities accessible and inclusive to all. At DNMM, we are committed to advancing that vision and to promoting independence for all people with disabilities.”

DNMM offers special thanks to the Saginaw County Commission on Aging, Midland Recyclers, MyMichigan Health, and Eastman Party Store for supporting this celebration and to the many community organizations that shared their resources with area residents. A huge shout out to the Heritage High School Football Team for their assistance with setup and teardown—we appreciate you all!

A federally funded Center for Independent Living, DNMM provides an array of
advocacy, skill-building, community transition, and support services to people of
all ages with any disability. You can reach DNMM at 989-835-4041 or online.