Independence First Celebrates the 36th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

By Andrew Levinson
July 31, 2026

MILWAUKEE — On Monday, July 27, Independence First and City of Milwaukee Department of Compliance and Engagement proudly welcomed community members, advocates, public officials, and partner organizations to celebrate the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The event brought together leaders from across Milwaukee to recognize one of the most important civil rights laws in our nation's history while reaffirming our shared commitment to building a community where people with disabilities can live, work, and participate fully.

A large rectangular sheet cake celebrates the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The celebration began with a community breakfast and program, where attendees heard from several local leaders about the lasting impact of the ADA and the work that still lies ahead.

We were honored to welcome remarks from Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski, Milwaukee Equal Rights Commission Chair Tony Snell Rodriguez, and Milwaukee County Director of Health and Human Services Shakita LaGrant-McClain. Their messages highlighted the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and ensuring that every member of our community has the opportunity to thrive.

Independence First's Director of Fund Development, Troy Moldenhauer, also spoke about our organization's mission and the vital role Independent Living Centers continue to play in advancing disability rights throughout Wisconsin.

Following the program, guests enjoyed a special anniversary cake from National Bakery celebrating the ADA's 36 years of progress before visiting a community resource fair featuring organizations committed to supporting people with disabilities. The fair provided attendees with opportunities to learn about local services, connect with community partners, and discover new resources that promote greater independence and inclusion.

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson cuts a cake celebrating the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act during Independence First's anniversary celebration. Since it was signed into law on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act has transformed countless lives by prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, public accommodations, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications. The ADA has helped remove barriers, expanded opportunities, and affirmed that disability rights are civil rights.

While we celebrate the progress made over the past 36 years, we also recognize that the work is far from complete. Too many people with disabilities continue to face barriers to housing, transportation, employment, healthcare, and community participation. Independence First remains committed to advocating for policies, programs, and services that empower people with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in every aspect of community life.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us for this year's celebration, as well as our event partners including the City of Milwaukee Department of Compliance and Engagement, Visit Milwaukee, and Milwaukee County, along with the speakers, volunteers, and staff who helped make the day possible. Your support strengthens the disability rights movement and reminds us that meaningful change happens when communities work together.

As we celebrate the ADA's legacy, we look forward to continuing the work of creating a Wisconsin, and a nation, where accessibility, inclusion, and independence are realities for everyone.