A Better Momma Bear
On this day 34 years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted, granting civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities. Yet, disability discrimination is the highest category of fair housing complaints filed.
As a mother of two children with disabilities, I see these ups and downs as a clear indication there is still much work to be done in terms of awareness, equal access, and structural changes.
While the legislative mandate was a step forward, it’s been 34 years, and those of us on the front lines are still fighting for the basics. For example:
▶️ When I take my autistic son out in public, he stems and hums a lot. He walks differently. Looks different. People stare. Then at a restaurant, we usually get seated the farthest away from people.
▶️ When navigating the medical and education system, I'm in constant advocacy mode to get baseline services. They don't understand his capabilities and needs; yet they are the professionals?
▶️ If I'm fighting this hard when he's 14, what will the battle be like later in his life? And mine?
Yes, this makes me a better Momma Bear. This is also why my role at Quadel matters; it allows me to emphasize the critical need for Fair Housing training.
Since our fight continues, we will keep swinging with hope and vigor alongside our Sesame Street friends, humming loudly for all to hear.
hashtag#AffordableHousing hashtag#FairHousing
hashtag#QuadelChangeMakers
hashtag#FridayPreaching
hashtag#ThanksToTheADA hashtag#ADA34
