By Dorian Esper–Taylor, ADA Disability Specialist, Office of Equity and Social Justice When we think of the life-changing civil rights movements in the U.S., the road to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is often a forgotten struggle. Historically, civil rights movements in the U.S. have begun as radical struggles. Equal rights have been earned and fought for rather than given; disability rights and the pathway to the ADA were no different. One of the early victories was the passage of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the first disability rights law… Read More

National Disability Employment Awareness Month is celebrated every October by King County to honor the many contributions made by people with disabilities, and how these individuals strengthen our workforce, our communities, and our country. This past year, the Disability Awareness Committee organized a wide series of articles and events to highlight these contributions, including: Universal Design for Meetings, Events and Trainings: This event was hosted by the King County Department of Human Resources and featured Blayne Amson, City of Bellevue Americans with Disabilities Act and Title VI Program Administrator. Amson discussed his… Read More

Every October, King County recognizes Disability Employment Awareness Month, celebrating the many contributions of people with disabilities to our communities, workforce, and country. In 2021, the Disability Awareness Month Committee gathered stories about King County employees working to improve accessibility, provide services, and engage people with disabilities. Click here to read these stories of courage and motivation.