Good morning. Thank you for joining us today as we announce a landmark settlement agreement between the United States, the State of Rhode Island, and the City of Providence, vindicating the civil rights of approximately 200 individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Today’s agreement is about opportunity. It’s about growth. And it’s about human dignity. That’s because today’s agreement centers on integrating people with disabilities into the engine of the economic mainstream: the workplace.
Work is a fundamental part of adult life for people with and without disabilities. It provides a sense of purpose, shaping who we are and how we fit into our community. Meaningful work – becoming a contributing part of society – is essential to people’s economic self-sufficiency, as well as self-esteem and well-being.Participation in the mainstream of American life was the goal of the Americans with Disabilities Act since its passage over 20 years ago. The ADA prohibits state and local governments from segregating people with disabilities just because of their disabilities.
via www.justice.gov
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