Recreation Departments to Celebrate Americans with Disabilities Act 25th Anniversary

Montgomery County Recreation, Montgomery Parks, part of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, and the cities of Rockville and Takoma Park invite the public to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at a free event on Sunday, Nov. 8, from 1 to 3:30 p.m., at the Mid-County Community Recreation Center, 2004 Queensguard Rd., Silver Spring. The event will feature dancing, face painting, crafts, a nature presentation and a special performance by former Harlem Globetrotter Spencer “Spinny” Johnson.

One of the most comprehensive civil rights laws, the ADA promotes fairness, opportunity and complete participation in all aspects of American life for individuals with disabilities. It secures each person's right to independence and enables our society and our economy to benefit from the talents and contributions of all Americans by minimizing obstacles to employment, transportation, public services, telecommunications and public accommodations.

All municipalities in Montgomery County have a long standing commitment to the goals of the ADA. In 1977, 13 years before the ADA was signed, Montgomery County expanded its Human Rights law to include protection against discrimination based on disability. Montgomery County Recreation’s Therapeutic Recreation Team provides accessible leisure, educational and personal development activities for individuals with disabilities through inclusion and adaptive programs. Through activities that include arts, crafts, games, team sports and special events, therapeutic recreation programs help individuals to gain confidence, have fun and make an impact on their lives.