35th Anniversary of Americans With Disabilities Act

Together with the Westchester County Board of Legislators, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins is proud to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), landmark legislation signed into law on July 26, 1990. The County reaffirms its ongoing commitment to promoting equal access, empowerment and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Jenkins said, “One of our highest responsibilities is to ensure every person in Westchester can participate fully in civic life, work and community events. The ADA laid the groundwork, but now it’s our job to build upon it and protect those rights. In every action, every legislation, every planning meeting – we will continue to fight for inclusivity and equity for all.”

Westchester County Legislator Nancy Barr said, “I am proud that my colleagues on the Board stand with me in support of people with disabilities, and that in conjunction with the County Executive’s office, we continue to prioritize inclusivity and accessibility in all of our decision-making. On this 35th Anniversary of the ADA, we recognize that although we have come a long way in 35 years, there is still much more work ahead. I am grateful for those within the community who are open about the challenges they face, and who partner with us in working toward solutions to improve the lives of people with both visible and invisible disabilities.”

Office for People with Disabilities Director Evan Latainer said, “From our Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program and newly launched Blue Envelope Program, to the annual Diverse Abilities Job Fairs, Westchester continues to make strides in improving accessibility. The ADA opened doors that had long been closed to millions of Americans. This commemoration of 35 years of progress is not only about legislation, but it is about honoring all those who have advocated and fought for progress along the way.”

Executive Director of Westchester Disabled on the Move Maria Samuels said, “Passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act was a landmark piece of legislation that forever changed the lives of Americans with disabilities. It sent a message that people with disabilities were not second-class citizens and deserved to enjoy all the rights and privileges of all Americans. We thank Westchester County and the County Executive for recognizing that we must celebrate this remarkable achievement and continue to educate the public on just how important it is.’’

In recent years, Westchester County has taken significant strides to advance accessibility and opportunity:

• The Disability Awareness Program offered through the Office for People with Disabilities, helps to educate students by detailing a day in the life of an individual with disabilities, and is available to all school districts, colleges, graduate schools and summer camps in Westchester.

• The Bee‑Line Para Transit system continues to deliver dependable door-to-door transit service, a vital resource for vulnerable and mobility-limited residents.

• The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program has been implemented by the Westchester County Airport to provide discreet support for individuals with invisible disabilities.

• The Blue Envelope Program has been implemented by the Department of Public Safety to enhance communication and understanding between individuals with invisible disabilities during a traffic stop.

• The Stop the Bleed Program was developed with the Department of Emergency Services to offer life-saving emergency preparedness training to individuals with visual impairments.