Americans with Disability Act Turns 26

Americans with Disability Act

Legislator Leslie Kennedy celebrated the 26th anniversary of the Americans with Disability Act in good company. Members of the Suffolk Independent Living Organization (SILO) joined together with Legislator Kennedy, Comptroller John Kennedy and Senator Tom Croci for a special celebration of the highest order on Saturday. On July 23rd, 2016 members of the community, local Activists and Guest Disability Speakers commemorated the 26th birthday of the Americans with Disability Act. The free event was filled with an afternoon of food, dancing, mini golf, silent auction and more.

“Folks with disabilities have a lot to offer us in the workplace and elsewhere, SILO has made great strides in helping many disabled Americans to live a more independent life and contribute to society in many ways… I am proud to celebrate 26 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and I stand with all my friends whose civil rights are protected by this act.” – Legislator Leslie Kennedy

Since 1985, the Suffolk Independent Living Organization (SILO) has been assisting and empowering individuals with disabilities across Long Island. The group has helped over 3100 differently abled Suffolk County residents. In 2016, SILO has consulted over 158 advocacy cases and have helped some 294 families to apply for supported housing.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was introduced into law in 1990 to protect the civil rights of all disabled Americans and prevent against discrimination in all aspects of life. The A.D.A. protects those with disabilities from discrimination at work, school, transportation and all other public or private spaces, open to the general public.

If you know someone with disabilities that needs help,  contact Leslie Kennedy’s office at(631) 854-3735 or via email  at Leslie.kennedy@suffolkcountyny.gov