Res. No. 399 Title Resolution observing and declaring July as the American with Disabilities Act Month in the City of New York, and recognizing the contributions of civil rights activist, Justin Dart, Jr., to the enactment of this historic legislation and to the empowerment of the community of people with disabilities in this City, State and Nation. Body By Council Members López, Baez, Barron, Comrie, Davis, Felder, Gennaro, Jackson, McMahon, Monserrate, Nelson, Quinn, Rivera, Sanders, Seabrook and Brewer Whereas, Throughout our nation's history, the community of people with disabilities has made tremendous contributions to all sectors of our society, from law and government to medicine and science, from music and the arts to business and academia; and Whereas, New York City, in particular, has always been a richer City, culturally and socially, as a result of the many contributions of its vibrant and activist community of individuals with disabilities; and Whereas, It is the triumphs and unwavering efforts of dedicated individuals that have advanced the disabled community, and the outstanding advocacy, manifold achievements, and unfaltering dedication of Justin Dart, Jr. that lead to the enactment of the historic American with Disabilities Act on July 26, 1990; and Whereas, Justin Dart, Jr., often called the Martin Luther King of the disability civil rights movement, humbly considering himself simply "a soldier of justice", with tenacious impatience and the unwavering voice of empowerment advocated for the rights of all people, with and without disabilities; and Whereas, The American with Disabilities Act Month is a time to honor and reflect on the life of Justin Dart, Jr., recipient of the 1998 Presidential Medal of Freedom, whose passing on June 22, 2002 is commemorated with praise for his good works, acknowledgement of his achievements, and remembrance of his contributions to the community of people with disabilities; and Whereas, The American with Disabilities Act Month is also a time to reflect on the passage of this historic legislation and the continuing struggle for the law's full implementation and the empowerment of the disabled community, who seek justice by working to make a difference in our own time; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York observes and declares July to be the American with Disabilities Act Month in the City of New York, and recognizes the contributions of civil rights activist, Justin Dart, Jr., to the enactment of this historic legislation and to the empowerment of the community of people with disabilities in this City, State and Nation. LS#837 MFB |1013| |1013|