Date change to Oct. 12 for TASH Symposium for Change to celebrate 20th ADA anniversary

From TASH:

Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act with TASH as we interview those at the forefront of the disability rights movement in a special ADA 20th Anniversary Video Series. Every two weeks, TASH will release a video interview from a leading figure in the movement. This is part of a year-long celebration that also includes the 2010 Symposium for Change, October 12, in Washington, D.C.

In an effort to expand our advocacy efforts, the 2010 Symposium for Change has been moved to October 12, 2010, in Washington, D.C. The move allows TASH to gain broad participation from the disability community, families, advocates, professionals and policy makers. We hope you'll join us on October 12 as we explore and tackle the rising challenge of disparities for people of color with disabilities!

Be part of the advocacy in Washington as we discuss the latest research and best practices in health, employment and education for people of color with disabilities. Hear from leading researchers, advocates and decision-makers on the policies and practices that can help bridge and eliminate these disparities. The 2010 Symposium for Change also includes a legislative briefing and office visits to policy makers on October 13 on Capitol Hill.

Part One: Bob Williams

Currently serving as Senior Advisor for the Ticket to Work Program – part of the Social Security Administration – Bob Williams (right front in picture) was a leading figure in the advocacy that helped pass the ADA in 1990. He’s been a champion for disability rights during the two decades since, spending much of the 1990s as Commissioner for the Administration on Developmental Disabilities under President Clinton where he promoted independence and community inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Williams, who has cerebral palsy, has been a vocal advocate from an early age. TASH asked him to reflect on the past 20 years and discuss some of the challenges facing the disability community today.

Part Two: Judy Heumann

Judy is the senior advisor on international disability rights for the U.S. Department of State. In this role she supports President Obama and Secretary Clinton’s goal of ensuring the voice of the disability community is listened to and integrated here and around the world. TASH asked Judy to speak about the disability rights and issues impacting employment for individuals with disabilities. Judy, who was diagnosed with polio at 18 months of age, has been a lifelong advocate and leader in the disability rights movement.

Part Three: Wayne Sailor

Wayne Sailor, associate director of the Beach Center on Disability at the University of Kansas, is a monumental figure whose research and advocacy has had a profound impact on education for students with disabilities. Wayne was instrumental in the creation of TASH 35 years ago, and has been an integral part of our work ever since! We interviewed Wayne to explore the future of education for students with disabilities in America.